\A*lem"bic\ ([.a]*l[e^]m"b[i^]k), n. [F. alambic (cf.
Sp. alambique), Ar. al-anb[=i]q, fr. Gr. 'a`mbix cup, cap of
a still. The cap or head was the alembic proper. Cf.
{Limbec}.]
An apparatus formerly used in distillation, usually made of
glass or metal. It has mostly given place to the retort and
worm still.

Note: Used also metaphorically.

            The alembic of a great poet's imagination.
                                               --Brimley.