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sublimate

Pronunciation: /ˈsʌblɪmeɪt/

The English word “sublimate” has 13 meanings listed here.

verb

To change (a solid substance) into a gas without breaking down or passing through the liquid state by heating it gently.
To change (a substance) from a gas into a solid through sublimation.
To refine (something) until it disappears or loses all meaning.
To modify (the natural expression of a sexual or primitive instinct) in a socially acceptable manner; to divert the energy of (such an instinct) into some acceptable activity.
To obtain (something) through, or as if through, sublimation.
To purify or refine (a substance).
To raise (someone) to a high office or status; to dignify, to elevate, to exalt.
To raise something to a state of excellence; to improve.
Of a substance: to change from a solid into a gas without passing through the liquid state, with or without being heated.
Of a substance: to change from a gas into a solid without passing through the liquid state.
To modify the natural expression of a sexual or primitive instinct in a socially acceptable manner; to divert the energy of such an instinct into some acceptable activity.
Synonym of sublime (“to become higher in quality or status; to improve”).

noun

A product obtained by sublimation.

Etymology

From Middle English sublymate, from Latin sublīmātus, past participle of sublīmāre (“to raise, elevate”).

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