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Precipitated: meaning, definitions and examples

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precipitated

 

[ prɪˈsɪpɪˌteɪtɪd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

chemical process

To precipitate means to cause a substance to be deposited in solid form from a solution. This term is commonly used in chemistry and refers to the process where dissolved materials separate from a solution, often as a result of a chemical reaction.

Synonyms

accelerate, bring about, cause to fall.

Examples of usage

  • The addition of lime precipitated calcium carbonate from the solution.
  • Heat can precipitate certain compounds out of aqueous solutions.
  • The reaction will precipitate a solid that can be filtered off.
Context #2 | Verb

resulting outcome

In a broader context, to precipitate can also mean to cause an event or situation to happen suddenly or unexpectedly. This usage is often applied in discussions about events in politics or social contexts.

Synonyms

initiate, instigate, trigger.

Examples of usage

  • The sudden announcement precipitated a wave of protests.
  • Economic factors precipitated the financial crisis.
  • The decision to raise taxes precipitated public outcry.

Translations

Translations of the word "precipitated" in other languages:

🇵🇹 precipitado

🇮🇳 विशिष्ट

🇩🇪 ausgelöst

🇮🇩 terperosok

🇺🇦 осаджений

🇵🇱 precypitowany

🇯🇵 沈殿した

🇫🇷 précipité

🇪🇸 precipitado

🇹🇷 çökelti

🇰🇷 침전된

🇸🇦 مترسب

🇨🇿 sražený

🇸🇰 precipitovaný

🇨🇳 沉淀的

🇸🇮 precipitat

🇮🇸 fellur

🇰🇿 түсірілген

🇬🇪 დაწვდილი

🇦🇿 çökmüş

🇲🇽 precipitado

Etymology

The word 'precipitate' originates from the Latin 'praecipitare', which means 'to throw down' or 'to cast down'. This Latin term is derived from 'prae-' meaning 'before' and 'caput' meaning 'head', conveying the idea of throwing something down from a height. The scientific usage of the term began in the late 18th century, particularly in the field of chemistry, to describe the process of a solid forming from a solution during a chemical reaction. Over time, the term expanded into other contexts, now also encompassing the meaning of provoking or hastening an event, particularly in social or political scenarios. This duality in meaning illustrates the versatility and evolution of the word throughout its history.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,851 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.