Metamorphosis



GRE Barron

解释

GRE 红宝书

• n. 变形, 变态
• ［英］ n. 变形, 变态 ( as change of form or structure)
• ［类］ 反义词: continuation without change ( 持续不变)
• ［记］ meta ( 变化) +morph ( 形状) +osis -> 变形
• ［例］ The process of a caterpillar changing into a butterfly is metamorphosis.

Webster Collegiate

noun (plural metamorphoses)

• Etymology: Latin, from Greek metamorphōsis, from metamorphoun to transform, from meta- + morphē form
• Date: 1533
• 1.
  • a. change of physical form, structure, or substance especially by supernatural means
  • b. a striking alteration in appearance, character, or circumstances
• 2. a typically marked and more or less abrupt developmental change in the form or structure of an animal (as a butterfly or a frog) occurring subsequent to birth or hatching

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