alembic
alembic
Definition
alem·bic (ə lem′bik)
noun
- an apparatus of glass or metal, like a retort, formerly used for distilling
- anything that refines or purifies
Etymology: ME & OFr alambic < ML alambicus < Ar al-anbīq < al, the + anbīq, distilling flask < Gr ambix, a cup
alembic
Usage Examples
Adjective modifier
- golden: The golden alembic, from the crest of the Boro of Widnes, refers to the chemical industry.
Modifies a noun
- preamp: The Amplification Preamp After journeying through the rack system the signal meets an alembic F2-B bass guitar preamp.
alembic Quotes
If only to be born were being invented Merely, or, better still, to concoct oneself From an antique alembic, a receipt. How splendid To take the phial cleanly from its shelf; Powders and liquids, all one's favourite hues Making the being one would be, the looker at stars Or storks on the spires of Denmark, drinker of dews, Or an eye simply.
