n.
Pronunciation: ˌ me-t ə - ' mo ̇ r-f ə -s ə s
Function: noun
Inflected Form: plural -pho · ses \ - ˌ s ē z \
Etymology: Latin, from Greek metamorph ō sis, from metamorphoun to transform, from meta- + morph ē form
Date: 1533
1 a : change of physical form, structure, or substance especially by supernatural means b : a striking alteration in appearance, character, or circumstances
2 : a typically marked and more or less abrupt developmental change in the form or structure of an animal (as a butterfly or a frog) occurring subsequent to birth or hatching