Agency Dictionary

transmute

verbPronunciation: /trænzˈmjuːt/

In Portuguese: transmutar

Spirituality & Myth

What does “transmute” mean?

To change, transform, or convert something in form, nature, or substance into a higher or different manifestation.

Etymology

From Latin trānsmūtāre, joining trans- ('across, into') and mūtāre ('to change'). The verb has been in English since the late Middle Ages and was long associated with alchemy, where it described the supposed conversion of base metals into gold or silver. It also names any profound transformation of substance or nature.

Usage note

In chemistry, transmutation refers to the conversion of one element into another through nuclear processes; the word retains a sense of profound, fundamental change that distinguishes it from ordinary transformation.

Synonyms

transform
convert
alter
change

Word family

transmutation
transmutable

Rhymes with

brute
flute
dilute
refute

Usage examples

To bring it all together and transmute it, I use Sketchbook Pro, and that's where the magic happens.

Concept

Biophilic InspirationBiophilic inspiration is the intentional practice of deriving artistic forms, color palettes, and structural patterns directly from biological nature. It posits that…

Source editions

Where this entry comes from in the Agency editorial.

Creative.9 - LunnaAugust 3, 2023Read the edition

Words of the same theme

Rebirthnoun: A new beginning after a period of decline or destruction, used in mythology to describe the cyclical return to life after death. In Archetype.0, rebirth is the defining characteristic of both the Bennu and the Phoenix.
Synchronicitynoun: The simultaneous occurrence of events that appear meaningfully related yet lack a direct causal connection.
Self-immolationnoun: The deliberate destruction of oneself, typically by fire. In Archetype.0, self-immolation is the voluntary act by which the phoenix builds a nest of fragrant spices and woods, ignites itself and is consumed by the flames.
Immortalitynoun: The quality of being immune to permanent death, living or enduring beyond a single lifespan. In Archetype.0, immortality is one of the five semiotic attributes of the Phoenix: the flames are not an end but a transition, an essential phase of its immortal existence.
Mjolnirnoun: In Norse mythology, the hammer of the god Thor, forged by dwarfs and known for its short handle. It is the weapon with which he defends gods and humans.
Agapenoun: A selfless, unconditional, and altruistic form of love often associated in theology with divine charity.
Alchemistnoun: A practitioner of alchemy, seeking to transmute base metals into noble elements and discover a universal cure.
Androgynenoun: A mythical primordial being uniting male and female characteristics in a single unified body.
Blissnoun: A state of supreme happiness, utter contentment, or serene, untroubled joy.
Chacronanoun: The tropical shrub Psychotria viridis whose leaves provide dimethyltryptamine in the preparation of ayahuasca.
Decoctionnoun: The process of extracting soluble chemicals and active compounds from tough plant materials by continuous boiling in water.
Elixirnoun: A magical or medicinal potion believed capable of curing illnesses or conferring exceptional vitality.

Also from these editions: terms

artisanaladjective: Relating to or produced by manual craftsmanship and skilled hands rather than automated mass manufacturing.
bardnoun: A poet, musician, or storyteller who recites verses celebrating heroic deeds, historical events, and emotional journeys.
biodegradableadjective: Capable of being decomposed and broken down harmlessly into natural organic matter by microorganisms.
Brainstormingnoun: A group creativity technique aimed at finding a conclusion or novel concept through spontaneous idea generation.
chrysalisnoun: The transitional pupal stage of a butterfly encased in a protective shell, often used figuratively to describe personal renewal or metamorphosis.
Compassionnoun: Deep awareness of the suffering of another coupled with the genuine desire to alleviate their distress and provide solace.
letteringnoun: The art of drawing custom typographic characters and decorative letters to create a unique illustrative composition.
nostalgicadjective: Characterized by or evoking an affectionate, bittersweet longing for past eras, places, or personal memories.
Protagonistnoun: The principal character or leading figure in a dramatic production, novel, or historical movement.
sentientadjective: Able to perceive, feel, and experience sensations or consciousness with emotional responsiveness.
sommeliernoun: A trained specialist knowledgeable in wine or fine goods, often used colloquially to describe self-appointed critics who scrutinize cultural details.