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Distilling: meaning, definitions and examples

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distilling

 

[dɪˈstɪlɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

liquid processing

Distilling is a process used to separate components of a liquid mixture based on differences in their boiling points. This method involves heating the liquid to a temperature where some components evaporate. The vapor is then collected and condensed back into a liquid, effectively purifying or concentrating certain substances. Distillation is widely used in the production of alcoholic beverages, essential oils, and petroleum products.

Synonyms

purifying, refining, separating.

Examples of usage

  • They are distilling whiskey in the distillery.
  • The chemist is distilling an organic solution.
  • She is distilling lavender to make essential oil.
Context #2 | Noun

liquid separation

Distilling, as a noun, refers to the process or the technique of separation of components from a liquid mixture through boiling and condensation. It denotes a crucial operation in many industrial applications where high purity or concentration of specific components is required. The word also embodies the methods, equipment, and techniques related to producing focused or refined products from the source material.

Synonyms

distillation, extraction, refinement.

Examples of usage

  • The distilling of alcohol requires precision.
  • Distilling is essential in creating perfumes.
  • Modern distilling methods have improved efficiency.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'distillation' comes from the Latin word 'destillare', which means 'to drip down'.
  • It was used in the early 12th century, primarily in alchemy and for making medicines.
  • The process was refined during the Middle Ages when distillation techniques became more advanced.

Science

  • Distillation relies on the different boiling points of liquids to separate them. That's how you can get clean water from salty seawater.
  • It's a physical separation technique based on the principle of evaporation and condensation.
  • The process involves two main steps: boiling the liquid to create vapor and then cooling it to recover the liquid.

Cultural Practices

  • Various cultures have used distillation for ages to create alcoholic beverages, with whiskey and vodka being well-known examples.
  • In ancient times, distillation was used for medicinal purposes, producing essential oils and tinctures.
  • The art of making perfume relies on distillation to extract fragrant compounds from plants.

Industry

  • Distillation is vital in the oil and gas industry, enabling the separation of petroleum products.
  • It is also essential in the production of spirits and liquors, contributing to the flavor and strength of the final product.
  • Water purification systems often utilize distillation to ensure safe drinking water.

Literature

  • In literature, distilling is often used metaphorically to denote the process of extracting the essence or core meaning of a narrative.
  • Writers might describe their creative process as distilling ideas into concise messages, focusing on clarity.
  • Classic texts sometimes employ the concept of distillation when discussing wisdom, suggesting it means refining thoughts through experience.

Translations

Translations of the word "distilling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 destilação

🇮🇳 डिस्टिलिंग

🇩🇪 Destillation

🇮🇩 distilasi

🇺🇦 дистиляція

🇵🇱 destylacja

🇯🇵 蒸留

🇫🇷 distillation

🇪🇸 destilación

🇹🇷 damıtma

🇰🇷 증류

🇸🇦 تقطير

🇨🇿 destilace

🇸🇰 destilácia

🇨🇳 蒸馏

🇸🇮 destilacija

🇮🇸 eiming

🇰🇿 дистилляция

🇬🇪 დისტილაცია

🇦🇿 distillə

🇲🇽 destilación

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,152, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.