Transfigure: meaning, definitions and examples

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transfigure

 

[ trænsˈfɪɡjʊr ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

change appearance

To transfigure is to dramatically change the appearance or form of something or someone. This term is often used in a spiritual or metaphorical context, indicating a transformation that elevates or enhances the essence of the subject. It may connote a sense of beauty or divinity, suggesting that the change is not only visual but also significant in nature. Transfiguration can be used in both religious contexts, such as the transfiguration of Christ, and in literature, symbolizing a character's personal growth.

Synonyms

alter, convert, metamorphose, transform, transmute.

Examples of usage

  • The artist sought to transfigure the mundane into the extraordinary.
  • In the novel, the protagonist undergoes a transfiguration after discovering his true purpose.
  • The film depicts a moment of transfiguration when the character experiences enlightenment.

Translations

Translations of the word "transfigure" in other languages:

🇵🇹 transformar

🇮🇳 रूपांतरित करना

🇩🇪 verwandeln

🇮🇩 mengubah

🇺🇦 перетворити

🇵🇱 przekształcić

🇯🇵 変形させる

🇫🇷 transformer

🇪🇸 transformar

🇹🇷 dönüştürmek

🇰🇷 변형하다

🇸🇦 تحويل

🇨🇿 přetvořit

🇸🇰 premeniť

🇨🇳 转变

🇸🇮 preoblikovati

🇮🇸 breyta

🇰🇿 түрлендіру

🇬🇪 გადაქცევა

🇦🇿 şəklini dəyişmək

🇲🇽 transformar

Etymology

The word 'transfigure' originates from the Middle English term 'transfiguren', which is derived from the Latin 'transfigurare'. The Latin term combines 'trans-', meaning 'across' or 'beyond', with 'figurare', meaning 'to shape or form'. Thus, the literal meaning of 'transfigure' is to shape something beyond its original form. Throughout history, the term has been particularly significant in religious texts, where it often refers to the miraculous transformation of figures into a divine or glorified state. This concept has been prominent in Christian theology, especially regarding the Transfiguration of Jesus, an event described in the New Testament where Jesus' appearance was changed before three of his disciples. As language evolved, 'transfigure' also found its way into secular contexts, particularly in literature and art, symbolizing a deeper change in character or theme.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,127, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.