The word "sublimate" is spelled with four syllables and has the IPA phonetic transcription of /ˈsʌblɪmeɪt/. The first syllable is pronounced as "suh", the second syllable is pronounced as "bluh", while the third syllable is pronounced as "mey", and the final syllable is pronounced "t". The word means to transform negative emotions into positive actions or to purify something through a physical or chemical process. It is commonly used in the field of psychoanalysis to describe the process of redirecting repressed desires into socially acceptable behavior.
Sublimate is a verb that refers to several different meanings depending on the context. The primary definition of sublimate is the process of transforming a solid directly into a gas without going through a liquid state. This occurs when a substance is heated and vaporizes, then condenses and solidifies again upon cooling. For example, when dry ice is heated, it sublimates, turning from a solid directly into carbon dioxide gas.
In a psychological context, sublimate means to divert or redirect one's instincts, typically sexual or aggressive, into socially acceptable and constructive activities. This occurs when an individual channels their primal desires or energies into more productive or socially beneficial outlets, such as creative or intellectual pursuits. For instance, a person with a strong drive for aggressive behavior may take up a competitive sport or join the military.
Additionally, sublimate can also refer to the process of purifying or refining something, often on a symbolic or metaphorical level. This could involve transforming or elevating one's emotions, thoughts, or experiences to a higher level of expression or understanding.
Overall, sublimate represents various processes such as the transformation of a solid to a gas, redirecting primal instincts into productive activities, and refining or elevating something to a higher level. The exact meaning of sublimate heavily depends on the specific context in which it is used.
1. To bring a solid substance into a state of vapor and then to cause its condensation, in order to free it from non-vaporizable impurities. 2. Any substance which has been submitted to sublimation. 3. Corrosive sublimate, hydrargyri chloridum corrosivum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
• made pure
• The product of sublimation.
• To bring a solid substance into a vapour by heat; to refine and exalt; to elevate.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "sublimate" originates from the Latin term "sublimatus", which is the past participle of the verb "sublimare". "Sublimare" consists of two Latin roots: "sub", meaning "up" or "under", and "limare", meaning "to smooth" or "to polish". Thus, "sublimare" originally referred to the process of refining or purifying a substance by heating it until it produces a vapor, which upon cooling, forms as a solid again without passing through a liquid phase. Over time, the term "sublimate" acquired the figurative meaning of transforming or redirecting one's emotions, desires, or impulses into a more socially acceptable or higher form.