English Reference
adjective

reformed

adj.
US /ɹɪˈfɔɹmd/ UK /ɹɪfˈɔːmd/ re·formed

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    having changed your behavior to be a better person.

    having abandoned previous bad habits or criminal behavior in favor of a more moral or law-abiding lifestyle.

    Simple

    The reformed criminal now spends his time helping teenagers stay out of trouble.

    In context

    As a reformed gambler, he now advocates for stricter regulations on betting shops and provides support for those struggling with addiction.

    unrepentantcorrupt
  2. 02 C1 Advanced Formal Religion

    relating to a group of Protestant churches, often those following the ideas of John Calvin.

    pertaining to the Protestant churches that separated from the Roman Catholic Church during the Reformation, specifically those following Calvinist theology.

    Simple

    They attend a Reformed church that has very traditional services.

    In context

    The scholar specialized in the history of Reformed theology, focusing on how it diverged from Lutheranism regarding the nature of the Eucharist.

    calvinistprotestant
  3. 03 C2 Proficiency British EnglishArchaic Military

    kept in service after a military group has been broken up.

    referring to an officer or soldier retained in service, often on reduced pay, following the disbandment of their specific unit.

    Simple

    The reformed officers remained on the payroll even though their regiment no longer existed.

    In context

    Following the treaty, several reformed captains were kept on half-pay until new positions could be found for them in the standing army.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated