alchemy
definition
a medieval philosophical and scientific tradition aimed at the transformation of matter, particularly the conversion of base metals into gold and the pursuit of the elixir of life
example
The ancient practice of alchemy was often shrouded in mystery, as practitioners sought the elusive philosopher's stone to transform lead into gold.
synonyms
chemistrymagictransformation
word origin — The word 'alchemy' comes from the Arabic 'al-kīmiyā', which itself is derived from the Greek 'khēmia', related to 'khemia' meaning 'the art of transmuting metals', with 'khem' referring to ancient Egypt.