metamorphosis

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun the marked and rapid transformation of a larva into an adult that occurs in some animals
  2. noun a striking change in appearance or character or circumstances
  3. noun a complete change of physical form or substance especially as by magic or witchcraft

Etymology

First attested in 1533, from Latin metamorphōsis, from Ancient Greek μεταμόρφωσις (metamórphōsis), from μετά (metá, “change”) + μορφή (morphḗ, “form”). Analyzable as meta- + -morph + -osis

In classic literature

Synonyms

metabolism

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