1. (n.) A melting pot for purifying metals; also a hardship that is a test and builder of character, as in a melting pot composed of some very refractory substance, as clay, graphite, platinum, and used for melting and calcining substances which require a strong degree of heat, as metals, ores, etc.

2. (n.) A hollow place at the bottom of a furnace, to receive the melted metal.

3. (n.) A test of the most decisive kind; a severe trial; as, the crucible of affliction.