1. a person who practiced alchemy, the medieval forerunner of chemistry that sought to transform base metals into gold and find the elixir of life
Usage: historical
2. a person who seems to have magical powers of transformation or creation
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The medieval alchemist spent years trying to turn lead into gold.
• Ancient alchemists believed they could discover the secret of eternal life.
• The famous alchemist Nicolas Flamel was said to have created the philosopher’s stone.
• She was an alchemist in the kitchen, transforming simple ingredients into gourmet meals.
• The artist was called an alchemist for his ability to create beauty from discarded materials.
• Many alchemists were actually early scientists who made important discoveries.
• The alchemist’s laboratory was filled with strange bottles and mysterious equipment.