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sublimate Definition

sub·li·mate (sublə māt′; for adj. & n., also, -mit)

transitive verb -·mat′ed, -·mat′·ing

  1. to cause to change directly from a solid to a gas, or from a gas to a solid, without becoming a liquid
  2. to have a purifying or ennobling influence or effect on
  3. to express (socially or personally unacceptable impulses, specif. sexual impulses) in constructive, acceptable forms, often unconsciously

Etymology: < L sublimatus, pp. of sublimare: see sublime,

intransitive verb

to undergo sublimating

adjective

sublimated

noun

a substance that is the product of sublimating

sublimate Related Forms

sub′·li·ma·tion noun

sublimate Synonyms

sublimate

v.

  1. To purify

    cleanse, refine, uphold; see clean, purify.

  2. To divert

    redirect, transfer, control one's feelings, repress; see suppress.

sublimate Usage Examples

Object

urge: But most of us are driven to sublimate this urge by the solving of artificial puzzles devised for our entertainment.

Adjective modifier

corrosive: Formaldehyde proved safer and less troublesome than corrosive sublimate, chlorine gas or sulfur dioxide.