Elixir
/ɪˈlɪksər/
Definitions
2 meaningsA magical or medicinal potion, typically one with extraordinary properties, often capable of prolonging life or curing ailments.
/ɪˈlɪksər/
A magical or medicinal potion.
The alchemist claimed to have created an elixir that could cure all diseases.
💡 Simply: An elixir is like a super-powered potion, like the one in your favorite fantasy book! It's supposed to make you feel better, live longer, or solve a big problem.
👶 For kids: A special drink that's supposed to make you better or stronger.
More Examples
The old woman swore by her daily dose of an herbal elixir for longevity.
The writer used the elixir as a plot device, a cure to solve the main character's health problem.
How It's Used
"The hero sought the elixir of immortality."
"The doctor prescribed an elixir to help soothe the patient's cough."
Something believed to have the power to improve or invigorate; a potent remedy for a difficult situation.
/ɪˈlɪksər/
A supposed remedy for an ailment.
Music was an elixir for her sorrow.
💡 Simply: Sometimes people use 'elixir' to talk about something that's a really good solution. For example, sunshine is an elixir of happiness because it makes everyone cheerful.
👶 For kids: A special thing that makes something better.
More Examples
The company's innovative approach acted as an elixir, boosting its market share.
How It's Used
"Her kindness was an elixir to his loneliness."
From medieval Latin *elixīrum*, from Arabic *al-ʾiksīr* (الإكسير), meaning "the philosopher's stone". Originally referring to a substance believed to prolong life or transmute base metals into gold.
Historically, the term was associated with alchemy, and the search for the philosopher's stone and the elixir of life.
Memory tip
Think of a magical potion that can fix everything - like an elixir!