transfigured
transfigured
UK[trænsˈfɪɡəd]US[trænsˈfɪɡjərd]
v
to change the outward form or appearance of something, especially in a way that makes it more beautiful or spiritual
v
(in christian theology) to be transformed into a more glorious state, as in the transfiguration of jesus
Morpheme Breakdown
trans
figur
ed
trans
across
figur
shape
ed
past tense suffix
Etymology
the word "transfigured" is built upon the latin verb transfigurare, which itself is a compound of trans- ("across, beyond") and figura ("form, shape"). the literal, ancient sense was "to change shape across from one form to another." this concept entered middle english from old french and latin, carrying the idea of a metamorphosis. in its journey into modern english, the meaning evolved from a purely physical transformation to one imbued with spiritual or aesthetic significance, denoting a change so profound it elevates the subject's appearance or essence beyond the ordinary. the "-ed" suffix marks its standard status as a past tense or past participle form.
Analysis
Structure: trans (across) + figur (shape) + ed (past tense suffix)
- trans: latin origin, meaning "across, beyond, through." serves as a prefix indicating change or movement.
- figur: from latin figura meaning "shape, form, figure." serves as the root element.
- ed: old english origin, a suffix used to form the past tense and past participle of regular verbs.
Examples
the setting sun transfigured the grey clouds into brilliant shades of orange and purple.
according to the gospel, jesus was transfigured before his disciples, his face shining like the sun.
the artist's vision transfigured the scrap metal into a stunning sculpture.