Definition of crucible

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< cruciate

crucible steel >

cru·ci·ble    (krs-bl) KEY 

NOUN:

1. A vessel made of a refractory substance such as graphite or porcelain, used for melting and calcining materials at high temperatures.
2. A severe test, as of patience or belief; a trial. See Synonyms at trial.
3. A place, time, or situation characterized by the confluence of powerful intellectual, social, economic, or political forces: "Macroeconomics . . . was cast in the crucible of the Depression" (Peter Passell).

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English crusible, from Medieval Latin crcibulum, night-light, crucible, possibly from Old French croisuel, cresset ; see cresset