transfigure

/træntsˈfɪgjər/

Other forms: transfigured; transfiguring; transfigures

To transfigure is to change or alter something, often so that it becomes even more amazing or beautiful. That colorful mural you painted really transfigures your bedroom!

Transfigure has a Latin root, transfigurare, "change the shape of." While its meaning is similar to transform, there's usually an additional sense of "make better" in transfigure. When you come home dirty and tired after a camping trip, a hot shower and clean clothes will transfigure you. And adding grated cheese, chopped basil, and a drizzle of good olive oil can transfigure a simple dish of pasta.

Definitions of transfigure

1. verb

   change completely the nature or appearance of
   synonyms: metamorphose, transmogrify

   type of:

   change by reversal, reverse, turn

   change to the contrary
2. verb

   elevate or idealize, in allusion to Christ's transfiguration
   synonyms: glorify, spiritualize

   type of:

   alter, change, modify

   cause to change; make different; cause a transformation