Alchemist
/ˈæl.kə.mɪst/noun
A person who practices alchemy, aiming to transform base metals into gold or discover a universal elixir.
Did you know?The term 'Alchemist' derives from the Arabic 'al-kīmiyā,' which itself is rooted in ancient Egyptian practices of transmutation and spiritual transformation.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Egyptian
Egyptian
keme
“the black earth, symbolizing fertility and transformation.”
7th Century
Arabic
الكيمياء (al-kīmiyā)
“the art of transformation, merging the physical and metaphysical.”
12th Century
Latin
alchimia
“the study of transmutation, particularly of base metals into noble metals.”
14th Century
Old French
alquimiste
“a practitioner of alchemy, often associated with magic and secret knowledge.”
16th Century
English
alchemist
“one who practices alchemy, shrouded in mystery and occult knowledge.”