Elixir: meaning, definitions and examples
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elixir
[ɪˈlɪksər ]
Definitions
programming language
Elixir is a functional, concurrent, general-purpose programming language that runs on the Erlang virtual machine. It is known for its scalability, fault-tolerance, and easy syntax.
Synonyms
concurrent language, functional language, programming language.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| elixir |
When capitalized, Elixir refers to a concurrent, functional programming language designed for building scalable and maintainable applications.
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| programming language |
A formal language comprising a set of instructions that produce various kinds of output. It is used in computer programming to implement algorithms.
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| functional language |
A programming language paradigm that treats computation as the evaluation of mathematical functions and avoids changing-state and mutable data.
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| concurrent language |
Used in the context of computer science to describe a programming language designed to handle multiple processes or tasks at the same time.
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Examples of usage
- Elixir is often used for building robust, scalable web applications.
- Many developers find Elixir to be a powerful tool for creating distributed systems.
- The Elixir programming language is gaining popularity in the tech industry.
alchemy
In alchemy, elixir refers to a substance believed to have the power to prolong life indefinitely and even to transform base metals into gold. It was the ultimate goal of alchemical research.
Synonyms
elixir of life, panacea, philosopher's stone.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| elixir |
A magical or medicinal potion.
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| philosopher's stone |
A mythical substance said to transform base metals into gold and grant immortality; often used metaphorically for an unattainable or magical solution.
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| panacea |
A solution or remedy for all difficulties or diseases; often used metaphorically.
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| elixir of life |
A potion or substance that grants immortality or indefinitely prolongs life.
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Examples of usage
- The alchemist searched for the elixir of life, hoping to achieve immortality.
- Legends tell of alchemists seeking the elixir of eternal youth.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'elixir' comes from the Arabic term 'al-iksīr', which referred to a substance that could turn metals into gold or provide immortality.
- It was later adopted into Latin, where it meant a solution or potion, emphasizing its liquid nature in chemistry and medicine.
History
- In ancient alchemy, elixirs were sought after as the ultimate remedy, believed to hold the key to eternal life and transformation.
- Throughout history, various cultures created their versions of elixirs, such as tinctures and tonics, to boost health and vitality.
Pop Culture
- Elixirs often appear in fantasy literature and films, where characters use them to gain special powers or heal injuries, like potions in 'Harry Potter'.
- Video games frequently feature elixirs as items that players consume for health replenishment, enhancing gameplay experiences.
Science
- In modern medicine, the concept has evolved, with elixirs being recognized as solutions containing medicinal substances dissolved in a liquid, often sweetened to improve taste.
- Pharmacology refers to some cough syrups and liquid medications as elixirs, highlighting their therapeutic properties.
Literature
- Elixirs feature prominently in classic works like 'The Alchemist' by Paulo Coelho, where they symbolize the pursuit of knowledge and transformation.
- The metaphor of an elixir in poetry often represents hope and rejuvenation, capturing the essence of life's possibilities.
Translations
Translations of the word "elixir" in other languages:
🇵🇹 elixir
🇮🇳 अमृत
🇩🇪 Elixier
🇮🇩 eliksir
🇺🇦 еліксир
🇵🇱 eliksir
🇯🇵 エリクサー
🇫🇷 élixir
🇪🇸 elixir
🇹🇷 iksir
🇰🇷 엘릭서
🇸🇦 إكسير
🇨🇿 elixír
🇸🇰 elixír
🇨🇳 灵丹妙药
🇸🇮 eliksir
🇮🇸 lífselixír
🇰🇿 эликсир
🇬🇪 ელექსირი
🇦🇿 eliksir
🇲🇽 elixir