What does transmigrate mean?
Transmigrate is a formal and relatively uncommon verb meaning to move from one place or country to another, usually with the implication of settling there. In a second, specialized sense, it describes a soul or consciousness passing from one body or life to another, as in doctrines of reincarnation. Modern writers may use the verb when they want a formal or slightly literary alternative to migrate, while religious and philosophical discussions use it to describe the movement of a soul across successive lives. The word can therefore sound grand or elevated in ordinary contexts, but it is also precise where the idea of repeated relocation or rebirth needs emphasis. Because it is uncommon, clear context often matters: a person transmigrates by changing residence, whereas a soul transmigrates by entering another body. Recognising both senses explains why the word appears in migration, reincarnation, and spiritual literature.
verbTo move from one place or country to another, especially in order to settle. In religious or philosophical usage, it can also mean to pass from one body or life to another.
- To move from one place or country to another, especially in order to settle.
- To pass from one body or life to another, especially as a soul undergoing reincarnation.
"According to the tradition, the soul may transmigrate into a new body after completing the cycle of its previous life."
"Several families transmigrated to the coast in search of work and a more comfortable climate."
"In some philosophical traditions, an individual consciousness may transmigrate after the death of the body."
Transmigrate hides a cosmic itinerary: it can mean changing countries—or, in reincarnation lore, changing bodies.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does transmigrate come from?
The word was formed in English in the early 17th century from the prefix trans- and the verb migrate. Migrate derives from Latin migrāre, meaning to move from one place to another. Related English words developed from the same Latin root, including migration, immigrate, and emigrate.
Related word forms
How transmigrate is actually used
The verb is relatively uncommon. Its use for physical migration is often formal or literary, while its reincarnation-related sense occurs chiefly in religious, philosophical, and cultural discussions.
Easily confused with transmigrate
Transmigrate means to move or pass into another place, body, or life, whereas transmit means to send or pass on a message, signal, or other information.