'Transmutation of metals' definitions:

Definition of 'Transmutation of metals'

From: GCIDE
  • Transmutation \Trans`mu*ta"tion\, n. [F. transmutation, L. transmutatio. See Transmute.]
  • 1. The act of transmuting, or the state of being transmuted; as, the transmutation of metals. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. (Geom.) The change or reduction of one figure or body into another of the same area or solidity, but of a different form, as of a triangle into a square. [R.] [1913 Webster]
  • 3. (Biol.) The change of one species into another, which is assumed to take place in any development theory of life; transformism. --Bacon. [1913 Webster]
  • Transmutation of metals (Alchem.), the conversion of base metals into gold or silver, a process often attempted by the alchemists. See Alchemy, and Philosopher's stone, under Philosopher. [1913 Webster]