n. (pl. metamorphoses) 1 a change of form (by natural or supernatural means). 2 a changed form. 3 a change of character, conditions, etc. 4 Zool. the transformation between an immature form and an adult form, e.g. from a pupa to an insect, or from a tadpole to a frog.
[ L f. Gk metamorphosis f. metamorphoo transform (as META-, morphoo f. morphe form) ]