v. & n.
v. 1 tr. (usu. foll. by into) change in form, character, or function. 2 tr. cause (a person) to change beliefs, opinion, party, etc. 3 tr. change (moneys, stocks, units in which a quantity is expressed, etc.) into others of a different kind. 4 tr. make structural alterations in (a building) to serve a new purpose. 5 tr. (also absol.) a Rugby Football score extra points from (a try) by a successful kick at goal. b Amer. Football complete (a touchdown) by kicking a goal or crossing the goal-line. 6 intr. be converted or convertible (the sofa converts into a bed). 7 tr. Logic interchange the terms of (a proposition).
n. (often foll. by to) a person who has been converted to a different belief, opinion, etc. convert to one's own use wrongfully make use of (another's property).
[ ME f. OF convertir ult. f. L convertere convers- turn about (as COM-, vertere turn) ]