ENGLISH
REFERENCE

elixir

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US //ɪˈɫɪksɝ// UK //ɪlˈɪksɐ// elixir

n. a liquid that people believe can cure any illness or help them live forever. In a more general way, it can be any drink or substance that makes you feel healthy and full of energy.

n. a medicinal or magical liquid believed to prolong life indefinitely or cure all ailments. In modern contexts, it often refers to a substance or solution perceived as a powerful remedy or source of vitality.


SIMPLE

The traveler claimed he had found an elixir for eternal youth.

CONTEXTUAL

After a long week of work, she found that a morning run was the perfect elixir for her stress.

COMPLEX

In medieval alchemy, the search for the philosopher's stone was inextricably linked to the creation of a universal elixir that would grant the drinker immortality and perfect health.

Origin

From Medieval Latin elixir (“philosopher's stone”), from Arabic اَلْإِكْسِير (al-ʔiksīr, “philosopher's stone”), from Ancient Greek ξηρίον (xēríon, “powder for drying wounds”), from ξηρός (xērós, “dry”).

Usage

Often used metaphorically to describe something that provides a significant boost to health, mood, or success.

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