'metamorphosis' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'metamorphōsis,' where 'meta-' meant 'change' and 'morphē' meant 'form.'

'metamorphōsis' transformed into the Latin word 'metamorphosis,' and eventually became the modern English word 'metamorphosis' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'a change of form or nature,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.