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noun

alchemist

AL-kuh-mihst

Alchemist (noun) means someone who practises alchemy, the early forerunner of chemistry that sought to turn base metals into gold. Example: “The old alchemist claimed he could turn lead into gold.”

noun
1
Someone who practises alchemy, the early forerunner of chemistry that sought to turn base metals into gold.
"The old alchemist claimed he could turn lead into gold."
"Medieval alchemists unknowingly discovered several real chemical processes."

How to use alchemist

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA person who practised the old mystical craft of alchemy.

Common pairings
a medieval alchemist the alchemist's workshop

Word forms

alchemists plural

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The old _____ claimed he could turn lead into gold.

Etymology

From Old French alquemiste, from Medieval Latin alchemista — built on "alchemy" plus the agent suffix "-ist."

Origin: Medieval Latin

fire philosopher philosopher by fire philosopher of fire

Rhymes for alchemist

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Frequently asked questions

What does “alchemist” mean?

The word “alchemist” means someone who practises alchemy, the early forerunner of chemistry that sought to turn base metals into gold. In plain terms, a person who practised the old mystical craft of alchemy.

How do you pronounce “alchemist”?

“Alchemist” is pronounced AL-kuh-mihst (/ˈæl.kə.mɪst/ in IPA).

How do you use “alchemist” in a sentence?

Here is “alchemist” used in a sentence: “The old alchemist claimed he could turn lead into gold.”

What is another word for “alchemist”?

Words with a similar meaning to “alchemist” include fire philosopher, philosopher by fire and philosopher of fire.

What part of speech is “alchemist”?

“Alchemist” is a noun.

Where does the word “alchemist” come from?

The word “alchemist” comes from Medieval Latin. From Old French alquemiste, from Medieval Latin alchemista — built on "alchemy" plus the agent suffix "-ist.".

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