transmute

verb

tran(t)s-ˈmyüt How to pronounce transmute (audio)
Definition of transmutenext
as in to transform
to change in form, appearance, or use in his elegy on his deceased wife, the poet has transmuted inconsolable grief into high art

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word transmute different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of transmute are convert, metamorphose, transfigure, transform, and transmogrify. While all these words mean "to change a thing into a different thing," transmute implies transforming into a higher element or thing.

attempted to transmute lead into gold

When might convert be a better fit than transmute?

Although the words convert and transmute have much in common, convert implies a change fitting something for a new or different use or function.

converted the study into a nursery

When is it sensible to use metamorphose instead of transmute?

The words metamorphose and transmute are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, metamorphose suggests an abrupt or startling change induced by or as if by magic or a supernatural power.

awkward girls metamorphosed into graceful ballerinas

When is transfigure a more appropriate choice than transmute?

The meanings of transfigure and transmute largely overlap; however, transfigure implies a change that exalts or glorifies.

joy transfigured her face

When would transform be a good substitute for transmute?

The words transform and transmute can be used in similar contexts, but transform implies a major change in form, nature, or function.

transformed a small company into a corporate giant

In what contexts can transmogrify take the place of transmute?

While the synonyms transmogrify and transmute are close in meaning, transmogrify suggests a strange or preposterous metamorphosis.

a story in which a frog is transmogrified into a prince

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of transmute The scene is a horrifying tableau, but one somehow transmuted, by the camera’s unwavering focus and the doctor’s calm, soothing ministrations, into an incongruous vision of grace. —Justin Chang, New Yorker, 25 Apr. 2025 And transmuting them into LSD is similarly intricate. —John Semley, Rolling Stone, 19 Apr. 2025 That gets transmuted into a rote kind of love story. —Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 8 Apr. 2025 As for July’s Superman, Carrigan plays Rex Mason/Metamorpho, who, per the comics, can transmute himself into chemical compounds of his choosing. —Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 26 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for transmute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for transmute
  1. transform
  2. convert
Verb
  • The intersection where Floyd took his last breaths was transformed from a gas station and corner store into a living memorial.
    — N'dea Yancey-Bragg, USA Today, 25 May 2025
  • World Chase Tag has transformed the classic game of tag into a high-intensity sport, featuring parkour athletes competing in short, intense chases.
    — John Cairney, Sportico.com, 24 May 2025
Definition of transform
Verb
  • Entering the final year of his three-year contract with the New Jersey Devils, Haula’s full no-trade protection will convert to a six-team no-trade clause on July 1.
    — Harman Dayal, New York Times, 30 May 2025
  • Months after the expose ran in late 2023, Brand also converted to Christianity and has been outspoken about his new faith.
    — Alex Ritman, Variety, 30 May 2025
Definition of convert

Browse Nearby Words

transmutations
transmute
transmuted
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Transmute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/transmute. Accessed 6 Jun. 2025.

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