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noun

transmutation

tranzmyoo-TAYSHN

Transmutation (noun) means a complete change from one form or nature into another. Example: “The story tracks the transmutation of a shy student into a confident speaker.”

noun
1
A complete change from one form or nature into another.
"The story tracks the transmutation of a shy student into a confident speaker."
"Medieval alchemists dreamed of the transmutation of lead into gold."
2
In physics, the conversion of one chemical element into another through a nuclear reaction.
"Nuclear reactors can cause the transmutation of uranium into other elements."

How to use transmutation

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA total change of form, nature, or substance — from an old alchemy term for turning metal into gold to modern nuclear physics.

Common pairings
transmutation of elements undergo transmutation

Word forms

transmutations plural

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Etymology

From Old French transmutacion, from Latin transmutare, "to change across" — the same root gives us "mutate."

Origin: Latin

shift transformation transubstantiation

Related words

Rhymes for transmutation

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Frequently asked questions

What does “transmutation” mean?

The word “transmutation” means a complete change from one form or nature into another. In plain terms, a total change of form, nature, or substance — from an old alchemy term for turning metal into gold to modern nuclear physics.

How do you pronounce “transmutation”?

“Transmutation” is pronounced tranzmyoo-TAYSHN (/tɹanzmjuːˈteɪʃn̩/ in IPA).

How do you use “transmutation” in a sentence?

Here is “transmutation” used in a sentence: “The story tracks the transmutation of a shy student into a confident speaker.”

What part of speech is “transmutation”?

“Transmutation” is a noun.

Where does the word “transmutation” come from?

The word “transmutation” comes from Latin. From Old French transmutacion, from Latin transmutare, "to change across" — the same root gives us "mutate.".

How many meanings does “transmutation” have?

“Transmutation” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a complete change from one form or nature into another.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial