What does transmute mean?
Transmute means to change something from one form, substance, or quality into another. Its clearest scientific use is the conversion of one material into a different form, as in nuclear processes that transmute one element into another; in general prose, it often carries a more elevated tone than change or transform. The verb also has a figurative force: ideas, values, texts, or situations may be transmuted into something substantially different, suggesting that their essential character has been altered rather than merely adjusted. Historically, the word is closely associated with alchemy and the quest to turn base metals such as lead into gold. That association gives it a vivid intellectual and historical resonance, even when the word is used in modern scientific, literary, or philosophical writing. Though its everyday alternatives are often simpler, transmute is especially useful when the conversion is complete, unusual, or carries a sense of profound transformation.
verbTo change something from one form, nature, or substance into another, especially to convert one material or element into a different one.
- To change the form, nature, or substance of something into something else, especially in scientific or alchemical contexts.
- To transform the character, meaning, or value of something in a fundamental way.
"The alchemist devoted years to trying to transmute lead into gold."
"Neutrons can transmute one element into another in a nuclear reactor."
"She transmuted the raw notes of her diary into a vivid work of fiction."
Alchemists once hoped to transmute lead into gold, giving the word a lasting association with transformation and impossible ambition.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does transmute come from?
Transmute comes from the Latin verb transmutare, formed from trans-, meaning “across” or “over,” and mutare, meaning “to change.” The word has long been associated with alchemy, particularly the attempted conversion of base metals into precious ones. English cognates such as mutate and mutation ultimately derive from the same Latin root mutare, while immutable, formed from the opposite prefix, retains the sense of being unchangeable.
Related word forms
How transmute is actually used
Transmute is formal and relatively uncommon in everyday speech. It is especially common in scientific writing and also carries a literary or philosophical tone when used figuratively.
Easily confused with transmute
Transmute means to transform something into a different form or nature, whereas transmit means to send or pass something along.