The noun dates from the mid 17th century. Reform definition is - to put or change into an improved form or condition. How to use reform in a sentence. Synonym Discussion of reform.
English dictionary definition of reform.
If someone reforms something such as a law , social system , or institution , they change or improve it. When someone reforms or when something reforms them, they stop doing things that society does not approve of, such as breaking the law or drinking too much alcohol. What does reform mean ? Oxford Dictionaries as Make changes in (something, especially an institution or practice) in order to improve it. An example of reform is sending a troubled teenager to juvenile hall for a month and having the teenager return better behaved.
Developing countries may carry out a wide range of reforms to improve their living standards, often with support from international financial institutions and aid agencies. Reform is generally regarded as antithetical to revolution. This can include reforms to macroeconomic policy, the civil service, and public financial management.