metamorphose
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˌmɛtəˈmɔrfoʊz/
KK: /ˌmɛtəˈmɔrfoʊz/
intransitive verb
Definition
To change or transform completely in form or appearance, often in a way that is significant or dramatic.
Example
The caterpillar will metamorphose into a butterfly after a few weeks.
Tense Forms
Past: metamorphosed
Past Participle: metamorphosed
Conversation
Have you ever seen a caterpillar metamorphose into a butterfly?
Yes, it's such a fascinating process to watch!
I read that it can take several weeks for them to metamorphose completely.
That's right! Nature really knows how to create amazing transformations.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
transform
convert
change
Antonyms
remain
stagnate
persist
transitive verb
Definition
To change completely in form or appearance; to transform into something different.
Example
The caterpillar will metamorphose into a butterfly after it forms a cocoon.
Tense Forms
Past: metamorphosed
Past Participle: metamorphosed
Conversation
Have you ever seen a caterpillar metamorphose into a butterfly?
Yes, it's such a beautiful transformation to witness.
I think it’s amazing how nature can metamorphose creatures like that.
Root Explanation
Metamorphose → It is formed from "meta-" (meaning change) and "morphosis" (from Greek "morphē", meaning form or shape). The word describes the process of changing from one form or shape into another.
Memory Tip
Think of 'change' ('meta-') and 'form' ('morphē') to remember that metamorphose means to change shape or form.
Visually Confused Words
unmetamorphosed
tetramorphous