improvement (or an intended improvement) in the existing form or condition of institutions or practices etc.; intended to make a striking change for the better in social or political or religious affairs

a religious movement of the 16th century that began as an attempt to reform the Roman Catholic Church and resulted in the creation of Protestant churches

[ Syn: reformation , protestant reformation ]

rescuing from error and returning to a rightful course; the reclamation of delinquent children

[ Syn: reclamation ]