ENGLISH
REFERENCE

morph

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈmɔɹf// morph Informal Slang

v. to change slowly and smoothly from one thing into another. You often use this when talking about images or people's characters changing over time.

v. to undergo a gradual transformation from one form or character into another. Often describes digital image transitions or the evolution of abstract concepts.


SIMPLE

The caterpillar will eventually morph into a butterfly.

CONTEXTUAL

Over the last decade, the small startup began to morph into a global tech giant.

COMPLEX

Using advanced digital effects, the filmmaker showed the protagonist's face morph into a wolf during the full moon sequence, creating a seamless transition that captivated the audience.

Etymology 1

Back-formation from morpheme, from Ancient Greek μορφή (morphḗ, “form, shape”). Compare German Morph, from Morphem. Attested since the 1940s.

Etymology 2

Back-formation from morphism. Attested since the 1950s. See also morphology.

Etymology 3

Clipping of metamorphose.

Etymology 4

Clipping of morphine.

Etymology 5

Clipping of morphodite.

Usage

The verb is often used with the preposition 'into'.

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