'transfiguration' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'transfiguratio,' where 'trans-' meant 'across' and 'figura' meant 'form or shape.'

'transfiguratio' transformed into the Old French word 'transfiguration,' and eventually became the modern English word 'transfiguration' through Middle English.

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