ETYM Latin, from Greek, to be transformed; meta beyond, over + morph form.
Period during the life cycle of many invertebrates, most amphibians, and some fish, during which the individual's body changes from one form to another through a major reconstitution of its tissues. For example, adult frogs are produced by metamorphosis from tadpoles, and butterflies are produced from caterpillars following metamorphosis within a pupa.
In classical thought and literature, metamorphosis is the transformation of a living being into another shape, either living or inanimate (for example Niobe). The Roman poet Ovid wrote about this theme.
1. A complete change of physical form or substance especially as by magic or witchcraft.
2. A striking change in appearance or character or circumstances.
3. The marked and rapid transformation of a larva into an adult that occurs in some animals; SYN. metabolism. + prikaži više