Transmutation

Definitions

1. Change, alteration.
   countable, obsolete, uncountable
2. The conversion of one thing into something else; transformation.
   countable, uncountable
3. The supposed transformation of one element into another, especially of a base metal into gold.
   countable, uncountable
4. The actual transformation of one element into another by a nuclear reaction.
   countable, uncountable

Equivalents

Examples

“Up I rose and forth I fared: / Took my plunge within the bath-pool, pacified the watch-dog scared, / Saw⟳ proceed the transmutation—Jura's black to one gold glow, […]”

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

“Years later, scientists learned that the sun’s light⟳—visible and invisible—is merely the by-product of a process⟳ alchemists had vainly tried to reproduce⟳ for centuries—the transmutation of one element into another. That nature accomplishes this before our very eyes, and that it is what creates the solar heat and light⟳ that supports all life, was suspected by no one. The revelation came as a complete⟳ surprise⟳.”

CEFR level