Perestroika is a Russian term that refers to the restructuring of Soviet society. It's a term that was famously employed by the former Soviet leader, Mikhail Gorbachev. While there is no direct English translation for this term, there are plenty of synonyms that are used to explain the concept. Restructuring, reform, transformation, overhaul, renovation, and rebuilding are some of the synonyms that can be used to describe perestroika. These words well describe the intended shift from a centrally planned to a market-oriented economy, as well as a move toward greater political openness and democracy. Perestroika was an attempt to modernize Soviet society and to make it more efficient and responsive to the needs of its people.