different between transmutation vs alchemical

English

Etymology

Late 14th century, from Old French transmutacion (“transformation, metamorphosis”) [12th c.], from Late Latin transmutationem, from Latin transmutare (“to change”).

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA^(key): /t?anzmju??te??n?/

Noun

transmutation (countable and uncountable, plural transmutations)

1. (obsolete) Change, alteration.
2. The conversion of one thing into something else; transformation.
3. (alchemy) Specifically, the supposed transformation of one element into another, especially of a base metal into gold.
   • 1971, Keith Thomas, Religion and the Decline of Magic, Folio Society 2012, p. 261:

     The transmutation of metals was secondary to the main aim, which was the spiritual transformation of the adept.

4. (physics) The actual transformation of one element into another by a nuclear reaction.

Translations

French

Etymology

From Latin tr?nsm?t?ti?.

Pronunciation

Noun

transmutation f (plural transmutations)

1. transmutation (all senses)

Related terms

• transmuer, transmuter

Further reading

• “transmutation” in Trésor de la langue française informatisé (The Digitized Treasury of the French Language).

English

Alternative forms

• alchemic

Adjective

alchemical (not comparable)

1. (chemistry) Of or pertaining to the medieval chemical science and philosophy of alchemy.
2. Of or pertaining to an unexplainable transmutation.
3. Of or pertaining to the creation of something special out of a common material.

Translations