v. & n.
--v.
1. tr. & intr. make or become better by the removal of faults and errors.
2 tr. abolish or cure (an abuse or malpractice).
3 tr. US correct (a legal document).
4 tr. Chem. convert (a straight-chain hydrocarbon) by catalytic reaction to a branched-chain form for use as petrol.
--n.
1. the removal of faults or abuses, esp. of a moral or political or social kind.
2 an improvement made or suggested.
Phrases and idioms:
Reformed Church a Church that has accepted the principles of the Reformation, esp. a Calvinist Church (as distinct from Lutheran). Reform Judaism a simplified and rationalized form of Judaism. reform school an institution to which young offenders are sent to be reformed.
Derivatives:
reformable adj.
Etymology: ME f. OF reformer or L reformare (as RE-, FORM)