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.
alchemy, fidelity, casualty, procurement, dispute: meanings and examples
Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 201. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.
alchemy · noun/ˈæl.kə.mi/
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
The ancient practice of alchemy was often shrouded in mystery, as practitioners sought the elusive philosopher's stone to transform lead into gold.
Synonyms: chemistry, magic, transformation
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.
fidelity · noun/fɪˈdɛlɪti/
faithfulness to a person, cause, or belief demonstrated by continuing loyalty and support
Her unwavering fidelity to her friends during tough times earned her their deepest respect.
Synonyms: loyalty, faithfulness, allegiance
Origin: from Latin 'fidelitas', from 'fidelis' meaning 'faithful'
casualty · noun/ˈkæʒ.ju.əl.ti/
a person killed or injured in a war or accident
The bombing raid resulted in numerous civilian casualties, highlighting the tragedy of war.
Synonyms: victim, loss, wounded
Origin: from Middle French 'casualté', from Latin 'casus', meaning 'fall, chance, event'.
procurement · noun/prəˈkjʊr.mənt/
the act of obtaining goods or services typically for business purposes
The company's procurement process for new suppliers is designed to ensure cost-effectiveness and quality.
Synonyms: acquisition, purchase, sourcing
Origin: Middle English, from Latin 'procurare', meaning 'to seek for, obtain'.
dispute · noun/dɪˈspjut/
a disagreement or argument about something
The historical dispute over land ownership has led to ongoing tensions between the two communities.
Synonyms: argument, disagreement, contention
Origin: From Middle French 'disput', from Latin 'disputare', meaning 'to discuss or argue'.