chemist
chemist Lexical Profile
chemist Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A scientist who specializes in the study of the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of chemical substances.
"The analytical chemist tested the water samples for trace amounts of heavy metals."
British A licensed healthcare professional who prepares and dispenses medicinal drugs.
"She asked the local chemist for advice on treating a mild seasonal allergy."
British A retail shop where medicinal drugs are dispensed and toiletries or health products are sold.
"He stopped by the high street chemist on his way home to collect his prescription."
Word Nuance & Usage
In American English, 'chemist' almost exclusively refers to a scientist who studies or works with chemicals, whereas in British and Commonwealth English, it also commonly refers to a pharmacist or a retail pharmacy ('going to the chemist's').
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Adopted in the 16th century from French 'chimiste', a shortened form of 'alchimiste' (alchemist), ultimately tracing back through Arabic 'al-kimiya' to Ancient Greek 'khemeia' (the art of transmuting metals).