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Precipitated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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precipitated

[prษชหˆsษชpษชหŒteษชtษชd ]

Definitions

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

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In chemistry, 'precipitation' refers to the process where dissolved substances come together to form a solid.
  • This process is crucial in water treatment, where impurities are removed from water.
  • In meteorology, precipitation is any form of water, like rain or snow, that falls to the ground.

Psychology

  • Events that precipitate change in behavior can be traumatic or significant life events.
  • Situations creating a precipitating factor in mental health can lead to quicker onset of anxiety or depression.
  • Understanding precipitating factors helps professionals in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions.

Pop Culture

  • In many films, a sudden event, often unexpected, is used as a plot twist that precipitates the story's climax.
  • Songs often discuss feelings of love and heartache that can be precipitated by specific memories or encounters.
  • Popular TV shows frequently depict a crisis that precipitates character development, pushing them to evolve quickly.

Literature

  • In Shakespeare's plays, tragic events are often precipitated by a single decision made by the protagonist.
  • Literary techniques such as foreshadowing can hint at events that will precipitate later actions in a narrative.
  • Narratives often explore how a minor incident can precipitate major consequences in characters' lives.

Origin of 'precipitated'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'praecipitare', meaning 'to throw down'.
  • In science, it has been used since the late 17th century to describe the process of a solid forming in a solution.
  • It connects with the idea of something falling, similar to rain falling from clouds.

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.