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élixir

elixir

noun eh-leek-SEER Rare

Origin: From Arabic 'al-iksir', via Medieval Latin 'elixir'.

Usage Note

Élixir retains its medieval alchemical flavour in French, often used for magical potions in literature and fantasy. In modern usage it also appears in cosmetics and herbal medicine for premium liquid preparations. The phrase élixir de longue vie (elixir of long life) is a classic set expression.

Examples

"Il cherchait un élixir capable de le guérir."

Natural Translation

He was searching for an elixir that could heal him.

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