verb con·form \kən-ˈfȯrm\

Definition of conform

  1. transitive verb
  2. :  to give the same shape, outline, or contour to :  bring into harmony or accord <conform furrows to the slope of the land>

  3. intransitive verb
  4. 1 :  to be similar or identical; also :  to be in agreement or harmony —used with to or with <changes that conform with our plans>

  5. 2a :  to be obedient or compliant —usually used with to <conform to another's wishes> <The building doesn't conform to local regulations.>b :  to act in accordance with prevailing standards or customs <the pressure to conform>




play \-ˈfȯr-ˌmi-zəm\ noun


play \-mist\ noun or adjective

Examples of conform in a sentence

  1. Most teenagers feel pressure to conform.

  2. <the list conforms with the contents of the trunk>

Did You Know?

Conform, with its prefix con-, "with" or "together", means basically "to adopt the form of those around you". Thus, employee behavior must usually conform with basic company policies. A certain philosophy may be said to conform with American values (even if we sometimes have a hard time agreeing on exactly what those are). And a Maine Coon cat or a Dandie Dinmont terrier must conform to its breed requirements in order to be registered for breeding purposes. Being a conformist is usually a safe bet; being a nonconformist, who ignores society's standards and the whole idea of conformity, can be a bit dangerous but also sometimes more fun.

Origin and Etymology of conform


First Known Use: 14th century

Synonym Discussion of conform


CONFORM Defined for English Language Learners


verb con·form \kən-ˈfȯrm\

Definition of conform for English Language Learners

  • : to be similar to or the same as something

  • : to obey or agree with something


CONFORM Defined for Kids


verb con·form \kən-ˈfȯrm\

Definition of conform for Students



  1. 1 :  to make or be like :  agree, accord <The weather conforms to the recent pattern.>

  2. 2 :  comply <Every student needs to conform to school rules.>

Word Root of conform

The Latin word forma, meaning “form” or “shape,” gives us the root form. Words from the Latin forma have something to do with shape. The form of a person or thing is its shape. To conform is to fit in with others in form, shape, or manner. Something formal, such as dinner, follows a specific custom or form. The format of something, such as a book, is its general shape and arrangement.

Law Dictionary


intransitive verb con·form \kən-ˈfȯrm\

Legal Definition of conform

  1. :  to be in accordance :  correspond in character; specifically :  to be in accordance with the provisions of a contract


\kən-ˈfȯr-məns\ play noun


\kən-ˈfȯr-mə-tē\ play noun

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up conform? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).


living or existing naturally in a region

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