Reform

/rɪˈfɔːrm/

Meaning & Definition

noun

the improvement or amendment of what is wrong, corrupt, unsatisfactory, etc.

The civil rights movement was a significant reform in the fight for equality.

a change for the better, especially in the context of social or political institutions.

The new tax reform is expected to benefit low-income families.

verb

to make changes in something in order to improve it.

The government plans to reform the healthcare system to ensure better coverage for all citizens.

to change for the better; to improve by the alteration of some form or condition.

The organization aims to reform the educational policies to promote inclusivity.

Middle English from Old French 'reformare' and from Latin 'reformare', meaning 'to form again'.

reform bill:

A proposal for a new law intending to improve or modify existing laws.

social reform:

Changes in society aimed at improving social conditions.

educational reform:

Changes aimed at improving the education system.

To turn over a new leaf.

After his time in jail, he really wanted to reform and turn over a new leaf.

Getting your act together.

She decided it was time to reform and get her act together after failing her classes.