al|che|my

al|che|my
al|che|my «AL kuh mee», noun.
1. a combination of chemistry, magic, and philosophy, studied in the Middle Ages. Alchemy tried to find or prepare a substance which would turn cheaper metals into gold and silver and which would also cure any ailment and prolong human life. »

In its fullest sense alchemy was a philosophical system containing a complex and mobile core of rudimentary science and elaborated with astrology, religion, mysticism, magic, theosophy and many other constituents. Alchemy dealt not only with the mysteries of matter but also with those of creation and life; it sought to harmonize the human individual with the universe surrounding him (Scientific American).

2. Figurative. a magical or mysterious power or process of transforming one thing into another: »

the lovely alchemy of spring.

╂[< Old French alkemie, learned borrowing from Medieval Latin alchimia < Arabic alkīmiyā' < Late Greek chymeíā art of alloying metals < Greek chýma ingot < cheîn pour]

Useful english dictionary. 2012.

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