Alchemically

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. In a way that involves transformation of materials through a mystical or philosophical approach, often linked to the quest for turning base metals into gold, or achieving spiritual enlightenment
2. Pertaining to the ancient practice of changing substances into more valuable ones through esoteric methods, often drawing connections between physical and spiritual realms
3. Done in a way that relates to the ancient art of transforming substances, especially with mystical or experimental aims

Etymology: "Alchemically" is an adverb built from "alchemical" and the suffix "-ly," so the real story lies in the noun behind it. "Alchemy" traces back to the Greek "khumeia," meaning the art of casting metals or smelting, a word probably linked to "khumos," or "juice" in the sense of something poured. The Arabic "al-kimiya" took the Greek term, adding the Arabic article "al-," and it passed through Medieval Latin "alchemia" and Old French "alkimie" before reaching English. The adjective "alchemical" was formed in English by adding the suffix "-al," which turns a noun into an adjective meaning "relating to" the noun. The adverb then came from "-ly," which in Old English was "-lice," a form of the word "lic" meaning "body" or "form." So "alchemically" literally means "in an alchemical manner," and the adverb's sense of "through mystical transformation" grows from the older idea of transforming substances by craft.