First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
elixir
noun elix·ir \i-ˈlik-sər\
: a magical liquid that can cure illness or extend life
Full Definition of ELIXIR
1
a (1) : a substance held capable of changing base metals into gold (2) : a substance held capable of prolonging life indefinitely b (1) : cure-all (2) : a medicinal concoction
2
: a sweetened liquid usually containing alcohol that is used in medication either for its medicinal ingredients or as a flavoring
3
: the essential principle
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Origin of ELIXIR
Middle English, from Medieval Latin, from Arabic al-iksīr the elixir, from al the + iksīr elixir, probably from Greek xērion desiccative powder, from xēros dry
Related to ELIXIR
- Synonyms
- catholicon, cure–all, nostrum, panacea, theriac
Medical Dictionary
elixir
noun elix·ir \i-ˈlik-sər\
Medical Definition of ELIXIR
: a sweetened liquid usually containing alcohol that is used in medication either for its medicinal ingredients or as a flavoring
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