transitive verb

1. to make better by removing faults and defects; correct to reform a calendar
2. 1. to make better by putting a stop to abuses or malpractices or by introducing better procedures, etc.
   2. to put a stop to (abuses, etc.)
3. to cause or persuade (a person) to give up misconduct and behave better
4. Chem. to heat (petroleum products) under pressure, with or without catalysts, to produce cracking and a greater yield of gasoline or an improved octane number

Etymology: ME reformen < OFr reformer < L reformare: see re- & form

intransitive verb

noun

1. a correction of faults or evils, as in government or society; social or political improvement
2. an improvement in character and conduct; reformation
3. a movement aimed at removing political or social abuses

adjective