I. tran(t)-ˈsi-shən, tran-ˈzi-, chiefly Brit tran(t)-ˈsi-zhən noun
Etymology: Latin transition-, transitio, from transire
Date: 1551
1.
a. : passage from one state, stage, subject, or place to another : change
b. : a movement, development, or evolution from one form, stage, or style to another
2.
a. : a musical modulation
b. : a musical passage leading from one section of a piece to another
3. : an abrupt change in energy state or level (as of an atomic nucleus or a molecule) usually accompanied by loss or gain of a single quantum of energy
• tran·si·tion·al -ˈsish-nəl, -ˈsizh-, -ˈzish-; -ˈsi-shə-n ə l, -ˈzi-, -zhə- adjective
• tran·si·tion·al·ly adverb
II. intransitive verb
Date: 1946
: to make a transition
while they transition to a new, career-oriented lifestyle — Sarah Bright