metamorphosis
n. C / Un. a complete change in the form or appearance of something. In nature, it describes how a caterpillar turns into a butterfly.
n. a profound change in form from one stage to the next in the life history of an organism; by extension, any complete transformation in character or appearance.
The caterpillar begins its metamorphosis inside a cocoon.
The city underwent a complete metamorphosis over the decade, transforming from a quiet port into a bustling tech hub.
In Ovid's poetry, metamorphosis serves as a recurring motif where physical transformation reflects the internal psychological state or the divine whims of the gods.
First attested in 1533, from Latin metamorphōsis, from Ancient Greek μεταμόρφωσις (metamórphōsis), from μετά (metá, “change”) + μορφή (morphḗ, “form”). Analyzable as meta- + -morph + -osis
The plural form is 'metamorphoses'. Often used with the preposition 'from' and 'into' to describe the start and end states.
The butterfly's metamorphose was amazing.The butterfly's metamorphosis was amazing.Learners often confuse the noun 'metamorphosis' with the verb 'metamorphose'.