10. One of the simple substances, as supposed by the ancient philosophers; one of the imaginary principles of matter.
Note: (a) The four elements were, air, earth, water, and fire; whence it is said, water is the proper element of fishes; air is the element of birds. Hence, the state or sphere natural to anything or suited for its existence. Of elements The grosser feeds the purer: Earth the Sea; Earth and the Sea feed Air; the Air those Fires Ethereal. Milton. Does not our life consist of the four elements Shak. And the complexion of the element [i. e.,the sky or air] In favor's like the work we have in hand, Most bloody, fiery, and most terrible. Shak. About twelve ounces [of food], with mere element for drink. Cheyne. They show that they are out of their element. T. Baker. Esp., the conditions and movements of the air. "The elements be kind to thee." (b) The elements of the alchemists were salt, sulphur, and mercury. Brande & C.
11. pl.
Defn: The whole material composing the world.
The elements shall melt with fervent heat. 2 Peter iii. 10.
12. pl. (Eccl.)
Defn: The bread and wine used in the eucharist or Lord's supper. Magnetic element, one of the hypothetical elementary portions of which a magnet is regarded as made up.
ELEMENT
El"e*ment, v. t.
1. To compound of elements or first principles. [Obs.] "[Love] being elemented too." Donne.
2. To constitute; to make up with elements. His very soul was elemented of nothing but sadness. Walton.
ELEMENTAL
El`e*men"tal, a.