Plural of crucible; containers made of heat-resistant material used for melting metals or substances at very high temperatures, or metaphorically, severe tests or trials.
From Medieval Latin 'crucibulum,' possibly from Old French 'creuset.' The origin is debated but may relate to 'crux' (cross) or refer to a specific type of vessel. The metaphorical meaning developed naturally from the idea of testing in fire.
A crucible is literally a pot that survives extreme heat, so calling something a 'crucible' for testing people—like 'war is a crucible for character'—is actually perfect because just like metal is purified by fire, people supposedly reveal their true nature under extreme pressure.
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