sublimate (C2)

verb

Pronunciation: ˈsʌblɪmeɪt

Definition

Change directly from a solid state into a gas without passing through the liquid phase.

Examples

• In the cold vacuum of space, ice will sublimate into water vapor.

• The chemist observed the solid iodine sublimate when heated in the test tube.

• Frost on a window can sublimate directly into the air on a dry, sunny day.

How to Use sublimate

sublimate into (prepositional phrase)

The process of changing from one state to another. — "The solid crystals will sublimate into gas when exposed to heat."

sublimate something into (prepositional phrase)

To redirect an impulse into a different form. — "She learned to sublimate her anger into intense athletic training."

Synonyms of sublimate

Words with a similar meaning to sublimate:

• vaporize
• evaporate
• volatilize

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