The Strange Roots

Elixir ⚗️

Elixir, the general-purpose programming language designed by Brazilian programmer José Valim, was given its name simply because it was available.

First released in 2011, it was designed to leverage the Erlang VM, known for running low-latency, distributed and fault-tolerant systems. When asked about the origin of its name Valim said: "Unfortunately there is no particular reason. It was "just there"!".

Root: The word elixir meaning 'a magic or medicinal potion' stems from the Ancient Greek xēríon (a medicinal powder for drying wounds) that comes from xērós meaning 'dry'.

Sources: Oxford English Dictionary | Emails with José Valim.