/
ˌmɛtəˈmɔːfəsɪs,
ˌmɛtəmɔːˈfəʊsɪs/
n.
(pl. metamorphoses
/-siːz/
)
- Zoology (in an insect or amphibian) the process of transformation from an immature form to an adult form in two or more distinct stages.
- a complete change in form or nature.
Etymology
ME: via L. from Gk metamorphōsis, from metamorphoun ‘change shape’.