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adj Uncommon

reformed

Reformed (adj) means having changed for the better; having given up bad habits or behavior. Example: “He's a reformed smoker who now runs marathons.”

adj
1
Having changed for the better; having given up bad habits or behavior.
"He's a reformed smoker who now runs marathons."
2
Relating to the branch of Protestantism associated with John Calvin.
"She attends a Reformed church."

How to use reformed

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishHaving improved one's behavior, or (capitalized) belonging to the Calvinist Protestant tradition.

Common pairings
reformed criminal Reformed church

Word forms

more reformed comparative, most reformed superlative

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

He's a _____ smoker who now runs marathons.

rehabilitated turned around born-again corrected 改过 changed Calvinistic

Related words

Rhymes for reformed

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Frequently asked questions

What does “reformed” mean?

The word “reformed” means having changed for the better; having given up bad habits or behavior. In plain terms, having improved one's behavior, or (capitalized) belonging to the Calvinist Protestant tradition.

How do you use “reformed” in a sentence?

Here is “reformed” used in a sentence: “He's a reformed smoker who now runs marathons.”

What is another word for “reformed”?

Words with a similar meaning to “reformed” include Calvinistic.

What part of speech is “reformed”?

“Reformed” is an adjective.

Is “reformed” a common word?

“Reformed” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “reformed” have?

“Reformed” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: having changed for the better; having given up bad habits or behavior.

What is the difference between reformed and Reformed in religious contexts?

Lowercase "reformed" describes someone or something that has changed for the better, such as a reformed criminal who has given up bad habits. Capitalized "Reformed" refers specifically to the branch of Protestantism associated with John Calvin, including Reformed churches and theology. The capitalization signals whether the word is being used generally or as a proper religious label.

What does it mean to call someone a reformed character?

Calling someone a reformed character means they have genuinely changed for the better, typically after a period of poor behavior, and have given up habits that were harmful or wrong. It implies a lasting, positive transformation rather than a temporary improvement.

How is Reformed different from other Protestant traditions like Lutheran?

Reformed theology traces its roots specifically to John Calvin and Calvinist thought, while Lutheran traditions follow the teachings of Martin Luther. Both are branches of Protestantism but developed distinct doctrines, church structures, and practices from their respective founders.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial