noun / verb

reform

rih-FORM/rʌfˈɔrm/

To change something for the better.

The official reforms the unfair queue by introducing equal numbered tickets.

Latina city official replaces confusing unfair queue rules with clear equal numbered tickets, orderly line of varied adults gains fair service.

Etymology

“Shape again” became giving something a better form, not merely a different one. This connects reshaping with correcting faults or abuses in a person, practice, or institution.

In context

The Wall Street Journal4:11

there's a lot of inequities in this in this tax plan you know if you're going to reform the tax system you want to create a Level Playing Field

A Taxing Debate

More examples

These reforms give patients more control over their care.
The city needs tax reform, not another temporary fix.
He promises to reform and stop cheating.

Forms

reform · reforms · reformed · reforming

reformer noun — Someone who works to improve systems or practices.

Similar words

improve: Broader term for making anything better, without necessarily restructuring it.
amend: Usually means correcting or improving a document, rule, or law.