Phi*los"o*pher (?), n.
[OE. philosophre, F. philosophe, L.
philosophus, Gr. &?;; &?; loving + &?; wise. Cf. Philosophy.]
1. One who philosophizes; one versed in, or devoted to, philosophy.
Then certain
philosophers of the
Epicureans, and of the Stoics, encountered him.
Acts xvii. 18.
2. One who reduces the principles of philosophy to practice in the conduct of life; one who
lives according to the rules of
practical wisdom; one who meets or
regards all vicissitudes with calmness.
3. An alchemist. [Obs.]
Chaucer.
Philosopher's stone, an imaginary stone which the alchemists formerly sought as instrument of converting the baser metals into gold.
Hear it pronounced