Crystallize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
crystallize
[หkrษชstษหlaษชz ]
Definitions
chemistry
To form or cause to form crystals, especially with a regular atomic structure.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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crystallize |
Used to describe the process where a solid forms with a specific structure from a liquid solution or molten material. Often used in scientific, metaphoric, or intellectual contexts.
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solidify |
Used when a substance becomes solid from a liquid or a more flexible state. Can also be used metaphorically to describe making an idea or plan firmer or more definite.
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freeze |
Describes the process where a liquid turns into a solid due to low temperature. Common in everyday language as well as scientific contexts.
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condense |
Refers to the process when gas changes to a liquid upon cooling. This term is common in scientific contexts, especially related to weather or physical state changes.
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Examples of usage
- Salt crystals began to crystallize at the bottom of the container.
- The solution was left to crystallize overnight.
- The sugar started to crystallize as it cooled.
- The lava began to crystallize as it cooled down.
- The mineral crystallized in the rock over thousands of years.
figurative
To take a definite form or shape.
Synonyms
concretize, develop, formulate.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
crystallize |
Use 'crystallize' when talking about making something clear or definitive, often an idea or a plan. It can be used both in literal and metaphorical contexts.
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develop |
Use 'develop' for describing the process of growth or progress in various contexts, such as ideas, projects, skills, or physical development.
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formulate |
Use 'formulate' when you need to create or devise a detailed plan, method, or idea, often involving careful thought and precision.
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concretize |
Use 'concretize' when you want to give a more solid or tangible form to an idea or concept, often in discussions involving abstract or theoretical topics.
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Examples of usage
- Her ideas slowly began to crystallize into a clear plan.
- The concept started to crystallize in his mind.
- The vision of the future began to crystallize for the team.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Crystallization is a process used in chemistry to purify compounds by separating them from a mixture.
- The arrangement of molecules in a crystal is highly ordered, giving crystals their unique shapes and properties.
- Common items like table salt and sugar undergo crystallization, which is why they have distinct crystal forms.
Art
- In visual art, 'crystallize' can refer to ideas solidifying into a clear image or concept, akin to how crystals form in nature.
- Artists may use the concept of crystallizing ideas to describe the process of refining their artistic vision.
Psychology
- In psychology, crystallized intelligence refers to the knowledge and skills acquired through experience, which become clearer and more structured over time.
- The process of crystallizing an idea often involves breaking down complex thoughts into simpler, manageable parts.
Pop Culture
- In the animation 'Frozen,' ice crystallization is visually depicted, emphasizing the beauty and complexity of frozen water.
- The transformation of liquid to solid can symbolize deep emotional changes, often seen in narratives and character developments in movies.
Origin of 'crystallize'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek 'kristallos,' meaning 'frozen' or 'icy.'
- The suffix '-ize' indicates a process, making the term describe the action of forming a solid structure.
The word 'crystallize' originates from the Greek word 'krystallos', meaning ice or rock crystal. The term was first used in the 1790s to describe the process of forming crystals. Over time, 'crystallize' evolved to also represent the idea of taking a definite form or shape, not just in a literal sense but also in a metaphorical context.
See also: crystallization, crystallography, crystals, crystalware.
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #20,090, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.
- ...
- 20087 thump
- 20088 congratulating
- 20089 unrealized
- 20090 crystallize
- 20091 grenade
- 20092 crudely
- 20093 hydrolyzed
- ...