Alchemist: meaning, definitions and examples

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alchemist

 

[ ˈælkəmɪst ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

fictional character

An alchemist is a person who is skilled in the art of alchemy, a medieval chemical science and speculative philosophy aiming to achieve the transmutation of base metals into gold, the discovery of a universal cure for disease, and the discovery of a means of indefinitely prolonging life.

Synonyms

chemist, magician, sorcerer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
alchemist

When referring to someone historically involved in the medieval practice of trying to transform base metals into gold or seeking the elixir of life.

  • The alchemist's quest for the Philosopher's Stone consumed his entire life
chemist

When talking about someone who studies or works with chemistry, or in British English, a person who prepares and sells medicines.

  • She is a chemist who specializes in organic compounds
  • I picked up the prescription at the chemist down the street
sorcerer

When speaking about a fictional or mythical person who uses magic, often in a more serious or dark manner compared to a magician.

  • The evil sorcerer cast a spell over the entire kingdom
magician

When referring to someone who performs tricks and illusions, typically as entertainment.

  • The birthday party was a hit thanks to the magician and his amazing tricks

Examples of usage

  • The alchemist spent years in his laboratory trying to create the philosopher's stone.
  • She was fascinated by the alchemist's ability to transform ordinary objects into precious materials.

Translations

Translations of the word "alchemist" in other languages:

🇵🇹 alquimista

🇮🇳 रसायनज्ञ

🇩🇪 Alchemist

🇮🇩 alkemis

🇺🇦 алхімік

🇵🇱 alchemik

🇯🇵 錬金術師

🇫🇷 alchimiste

🇪🇸 alquimista

🇹🇷 simyacı

🇰🇷 연금술사

🇸🇦 كيميائي

🇨🇿 alchymista

🇸🇰 alchymista

🇨🇳 炼金术士

🇸🇮 alkimist

🇮🇸 galdrafræðingur

🇰🇿 алхимик

🇬🇪 ალქიმიკოსი

🇦🇿 alximik

🇲🇽 alquimista

Etymology

The word 'alchemist' originated from the Arabic word 'al-kīmiyā', which in turn is derived from the Greek word 'chēmeía'. The practice of alchemy dates back to ancient times, with roots in Egypt, China, India, and the Middle East. Alchemists were believed to possess mystical powers and sought to unlock the secrets of the universe through their experiments.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,928, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.