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.

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.]

3. Biol.

The change of one species into another, which is assumed to take place in any development theory of life; transformism.

Bacon.

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.

 

© Webster 1913.

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