# sublimate

> English word · Verb · IPA /ˈsʌblɪmeɪt/ · frequency rank #95,468

## Definitions
1. To heat (a substance) in a container so as to convert it into a gas which then condenses in solid form on cooler parts of the container.
2. To heat (a substance) in a container so as to convert it into a gas which then condenses in solid form on cooler parts of the container.
3. To refine (something) until it disappears or loses all meaning.
4. 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.
5. To obtain (something) through, or as if through, sublimation.
6. To purify or refine (a substance).
7. Synonym of sublime.
8. Synonym of sublime.
9. Of a substance: to change from a solid into a gas without passing through the liquid state, with or without being heated.
10. Of a substance: to change from a gas into a solid without passing through the liquid state.
11. 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.
12. Synonym of sublime (“to become higher in quality or status; to improve”).

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

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/sublimate