reformation

noun

ref·​or·​ma·​tion ˌre-fər-ˈmā-shən How to pronounce reformation (audio)
Synonyms of reformationnext
1
: the act of reforming : the state of being reformed
2
Reformation : a 16th century religious movement marked ultimately by rejection or modification of some Roman Catholic doctrine and practice and establishment of the Protestant churches
reformational
ˌre-fər-ˈmā-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce reformation (audio)
adjective

Examples of reformation in a Sentence

the reformation of our justice system
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Naturally, that level of craftsmanship comes with a higher price tag, but Reformation’s annual Summer Sale just made the prices a little more attainable. — Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 11 Aug. 2026 Built on a cheeky sustainability mission and cult-favorite dresses worn by celebrities and wedding guests, Reformation targets style-conscious shoppers seeking pieces that last without fast-fashion guilt. — Los Angeles Times, 4 Aug. 2026 Reformation was founded in 2009 by Yael Aflalo, who stepped down as CEO in 2020 (Aflalo, who still sits on the board, wasn’t there yesterday but joined on Friday). — Emma Hinchliffe, Fortune, 31 July 2026 Reformation has been let loose in the wilds of Wall Street — and chief executive officer Hali Borenstein said the brand is more than ready. — Evan Clark, Footwear News, 30 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for reformation

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of reformation was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing reformation

Rhymes for reformation

See All Rhymes for reformation

Browse Nearby Words

reformate
reformation
reformational
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Reformation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reformation. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

reformation

noun
ref·​or·​ma·​tion ˌref-ər-ˈmā-shən How to pronounce reformation (audio)
1
: the act of reforming : the state of being reformed
2
capitalized : a 16th century series of religious actions which led to establishment of the Protestant churches
reformational
-shnəl How to pronounce reformation (audio)
-shən-ᵊl
adjective

Legal Definition

reformation

noun
ref·​or·​ma·​tion ˌre-fər-ˈmā-shən How to pronounce reformation (audio)
: the act or an instance of reforming
specifically : the equitable remedy of reforming a writing (as a deed or contract) and enforcing it as reformed

Note: Reformation is allowed primarily to correct mistakes such as typographical errors or incorrectly chosen words. Occasionally reformation is permitted in cases of fraud or misrepresentation. Clear and convincing evidence of the mistake and of the intended agreement is usually required; sometimes parol evidence is sufficient to establish the agreement. This remedy is not applicable to wills.

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