'reformatory' originates from the Latin word 'reformare,' where 're-' meant 'again' and 'formare' meant 'to form.'

'reformare' transformed into the French word 'réformer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'reformatory' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to form again,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an institution for reforming young offenders.'