transmogrify

Definition

To substantially or completely alter the form of.

Etymology

17th century; origin uncertain, but possibly from transmigure, transmigrate. It is also possible that this word is a formation derived from maugre, hence it originally signified the "evil eye", but under the influence of the former etymologies shifted its meaning to its sense of "transformation". Another possibility is a humorous blending of transfigure and modify.

Example Sentences

• "Our present Governors (who have transmografide Monarchy into a Free State) ..."
• "Separateness in selfist thought is transmogrified into a perverted freedom (or set of freedoms), themselves devoid of attendant responsibilities."
• "For the better, if you ask the seven unlucky sods who originally died, and are now explosively alive. For the worse, if you ask the billions of ordinary people now in daily danger of being atomized, brainwashed, or transmogrified into gooey flesh-sculptures."

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