reformation

/ˈrɛfərˌmeɪʃən/

/rɛfəˈmeɪʃən/

Other forms: reformations

Reformation means making changes to something with the intention of setting it back on the right path. Your life will be easier after the reformation of the transportation system, when the buses run more frequently.

The act or process of changing a religious, political, or societal institution for the better is called a reformation. When capitalized, the Reformation refers specifically to the Protestant Reformation in Europe, which was a religious change instigated in 1517 by Protestants who wished to reform the Catholic Church. The root of reformation is the Latin word reformare, which means to form again or to change.

Definitions of reformation

1. noun

   improvement (or an intended improvement) in the existing form or condition of institutions or practices etc.; intended to make a striking change for the better in social or political or religious affairs
   types:

   counterreformation

   a reformation intended to counter the results of a prior reformation

   type of:

   improvement, melioration

   a condition superior to an earlier condition
2. noun

   rescuing from error and returning to a rightful course
   synonyms: reclamation

   type of:

   deliverance, delivery, rescue, saving

   recovery or preservation from loss or danger