Meaning & Definition of Reform in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: To improve or amend something by removing faults or reducing corruption.

  Example Sentence: The government promised to reform the education system.

• Definition: To constitute a change for the better in a social, political, or economic institution.

  Example Sentence: The civil rights movement aimed to reform laws that were unjust.

• Definition: To change for the better by formal means.

  Example Sentence: He sought to reform the banking system to prevent future crises.

• Definition: To cause a person to abandon wrong or sinful ways.

  Example Sentence: The rehabilitation program aims to reform young offenders.

Etymology

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

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• 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.

Translations

• Spanish: reforma

• French: réforme

• German: Reform

• Russian: реформа

Related Words

• reformation: The act of reforming, especially in religious contexts.

• reformer: A person who advocates for or brings about reform.

• reformative: Relating to or characterized by reform.

Slang Meanings of reform

• Meaning: To turn over a new leaf.

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

• Meaning: Getting your act together.

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