reformer

Everyday

1. A reformer is a person who works to change something, such as laws, schools, prisons or society, to make it better and fairer. tree →
2. (church) The Reformers were Christian leaders, such as Martin Luther and John Calvin, who wanted to change and renew the Church, leading to the Protestant churches. tree →

In the lessons

In history lessons, reformers campaigned against slavery, child labour and cruel prisons; for example, Elizabeth Fry worked to improve prisons. In church history, the Reformation was started by the Reformers. In stories a reformer often faces opposition. Phrases: "social reformer", "prison reformer", "the Protestant Reformers".

Examples

• Elizabeth Fry was a prison reformer who helped women in jail. tree →
• Lord Shaftesbury was a reformer who fought to stop children working in mines. tree →
• (church) Martin Luther was one of the great Reformers. tree →
• The new head teacher is a reformer who wants to change everything. tree →
• Reformers campaigned for the vote for women. tree →
• Many reformers were inspired by their Christian faith. tree →

Note

Countable: a reformer, reformers. Verb: reform (to change for the better); noun: reform. "The Reformation" (capital R) is the time when the Protestant churches split from the Roman Catholic Church. Do not confuse "reform" (improve) with "re-form" (form again).