reforming

American  

[ri-fawr-ming] / rɪˌfɔr mɪŋ /

noun

1. Chemistry. the process of cracking low-octane petroleum fractions in order to increase the octane number.

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Other Word Forms

• antireforming adjective
• unreforming adjective

Etymology

Origin of reforming

First recorded in 1920–25; reform + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

There has been discussion of reforming post-2008 liquidity rules that give incentives for banks to hold reserves while setting up programs to ensure that banks would have access to emergency funds when they are needed.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 18, 2026

He’s placing considerable influence in the defense industry space, alongside many others who understand how far behind we are in reforming our military’s procurement process.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

Most importantly for the long term, we are seeing the EU lay the groundwork for a potential flourishing of capitalism by supporting technology and innovation and by reforming and deregulating where appropriate.

From Barron's • Apr. 16, 2026

And "not fit for purpose" has become the phrase of choice for reforming politicians.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

Beside it, the spilled ink seeps back into its jar, the glass fragments reforming around it.

From "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern