reformation

/ˌɹɛf.əˈmeɪ.ʃən/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: reformations

Sense 1

Meaning · English

An improvement (or an intended improvement) in the existing form or condition of institutions or practices, etc.; intended to make a striking change for the better in social, political or religious affairs or in the conduct of persons or operation of organizations.

Noun

Examples

[…] olde men long nusled in corruption, scorning them that would seeke reformation […]

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Change or correction, by a court in equity, to a written instrument to conform to the original intention of the parties.

Noun

Examples

All sorts of legal instruments may be reformed by equity, when the errors, which have been committed in the execution of them, are mutual mistakes or a mistake of one party combined with the fraud of the other. Thus, reformation has been decreed of all kinds of deeds of conveyance, including leases,

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “reformation” mean?

An improvement (or an intended improvement) in the existing form or condition of institutions or practices, etc.; intended to make a striking change for the better in social, political or religious affairs or in the conduct of persons or operation of organizations.

Is “reformation” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.