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elixir

Elixir (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

noun

IPA:

/ɪˈlɪksɪə

What does elixir mean?

A potion or medicine that is believed to have the power to cure or to rejuvenate.
"The elixir was believed to give the drinker eternal youth and immortality."

Detailed Meaning of Elixir

Historically, elixirs were often made from a combination of ingredients such as herbs, spices, and minerals, and were believed to have medicinal properties. The word "elixir" comes from the Arabic word "al-iksir" which means "philosopher's stone" or "miracle drug".

In literature, mythology, and popular culture, elixirs are often depicted as magical or supernatural substances that have the power to heal, to grant immortality, or to change the drinker into something else. In alchemy, an elixir was a substance that was believed to have the ability to change base metals into gold or silver.

In a more general sense, the word elixir can refer to any solution or remedy that is believed to have the power to solve a problem or to bring about a desired effect. It can also refer to something that is believed to have the power to renew or to revitalize, such as an elixir of youth or an elixir of energy.

Example Sentences for Elixir

1. The ancient scroll contained the recipe for a mystical elixir.
2. The potion was said to be an elixir of eternal youth.
3. She sipped the herbal elixir to soothe her sore throat.
4. The alchemist sought the philosopher's stone for his elixir.
5. His morning coffee was his daily elixir of energy.
6. The spa offered a relaxation elixir of scented oils.

Origin and Etymology of Elixir

The noun 'elixir' has a fascinating etymology that can be traced back to several linguistic sources. Its roots lie in the Arabic word 'al-iksir,' which was a term used in medieval alchemy. 'Al-iksir' itself was influenced by the Greek word 'xērion,' meaning 'powder for drying wounds' or 'desiccative powder.' The Greek term likely derived from the Persian word 'ayāriš,' meaning 'preparation' or 'concoction.' As alchemy and its quest for a universal panacea spread through Europe, the term 'elixir' entered the Latin language as 'elixirium,' denoting a magical or medicinal substance capable of bestowing longevity, healing, or transformation. This intricate linguistic journey reflects the mystical and transformative nature associated with elixirs, which were believed to possess the power to cure and rejuvenate.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun elixir:

toxin

venom

poison

potion

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Elixir

1. The wizard concocted an elixir to break the curse.
2. The forest's tranquility was like a natural elixir.
3. The elixir of love was rumored to make hearts flutter.
4. The musician found inspiration in the elixir of music.
5. The scientist worked tirelessly to create a healing elixir.
6. The potion held the secret to a powerful elixir of strength.
7. The elixir of laughter is the best medicine for the soul.
8. The ancient manuscript revealed the elixir's ingredients.
9. His smile was like an elixir that brightened everyone's day.
10. The ancient alchemist claimed to have discovered the elixir of immortality.
11. The herbalist prepared a healing elixir using a combination of medicinal plants.
12. The bartender mixed a potent elixir that was said to cure all ailments.
13. The wizard's spell required a drop of a magical elixir to be effective.
14. The athlete drank a performance-enhancing elixir before the race.
15. The beauty influencer recommended a facial elixir to rejuvenate the skin.
16. The mysterious potion was rumored to be an elixir of love, capable of inspiring affection.
17. The scientist developed an elixir that could enhance memory and cognitive function.
18. The elixir of youth was sought after by many, but its existence remained elusive.
19. The wise old woman shared her secret elixir for vitality and longevity.
20. The alchemist's quest for the philosopher's stone was driven by the desire to create the ultimate elixir.
21. The elixir of happiness promised to bring joy and contentment to those who consumed it.
22. The ancient manuscript contained the recipe for an elixir that could grant extraordinary abilities.
23. The apothecary offered a range of herbal elixirs to address various health concerns.
24. The elixir of creativity was said to unlock the artist's imagination and inspiration.