alchemically
By mystical transformation
In the manner of alchemy—the medieval pursuit of transforming base metals into gold.
The word usually appears figuratively, describing processes that seem to create something valuable or magical from ordinary materials: The chef alchemically transformed simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
Legendary substance enabling transmutation
- base metalsNon-precious metallic elements
- noble metalsChemically inert metallic elements
- magnum opusCreator's supreme achievement
- calcinationThermal decomposition via heat
lead into gold · sublimation · coagulation · dissolution · distillation · projection · elixir · quintessence
Thorough change in form
- transmutationComplete change of form
- refinementElegance of manner
- purificationRemoval of contaminants
- synthesisCombining parts into whole
conversion · metamorphosis · transfiguration · catalysis · distillation · sublimation · essence · quintessence
Airtight, impervious condition
- esotericAccessible to few
- arcaneUnderstood by few
- occultConcealed from view
- hermeticImpenetrably closed off
cabalistic · sorcery · grimoire · theurgy · spiritualism · transcendental · sacred · initiatory
philosopher's stone
Legendary substance enabling transmutation
- base metalsNon-precious metallic elements
- noble metalsChemically inert metallic elements
- magnum opusCreator's supreme achievement
lead into gold · calcination · sublimation · coagulation · dissolution · distillation · projection · elixir · quintessence · purification
transformation
Thorough change in form
- transmutationComplete change of form
- refinementElegance of manner
- purificationRemoval of contaminants
synthesis · conversion · metamorphosis · transfiguration · catalysis · distillation · sublimation · essence · quintessence · elixir
hermeticism
Airtight, impervious condition
hermetic · cabalistic · sorcery · grimoire · theurgy · spiritualism · transcendental · sacred · initiatory · adept
mercury
Liquid metallic element
ouroboros · caduceus · red king · albedo · nigredo · conjunction
alembic
Distillation apparatus
furnace · mortar · pestle · flask · hermetic seal · cucurbit · bain-marie · still · condenser · receiver
alchemicallyscientifically
By systematic investigation
empirically · chemically · rationally · experimentally · analytically