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Sublimation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sublimation

[ˌsʌblɪˈmeɪʃən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in psychology

Sublimation is a defense mechanism where socially unacceptable impulses or idealizations are unconsciously transformed into socially acceptable actions or behavior.

Synonyms

conversion, repression, transformation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sublimation

Used in psychology to describe the process of channeling unwanted or unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable activities. Also used in science to describe the phase transition of a substance from solid to gas.

  • He turned his anger into a positive outlet through the sublimation of taking up boxing.
  • Dry ice undergoes sublimation at room temperature.
transformation

Used to describe the process of significant change in form, appearance, or character. Commonly applied in various contexts such as personal development, business, or science.

  • The transformation of the old factory into a modern art gallery attracted many visitors.
  • Her personal transformation after the retreat was truly remarkable.
conversion

Used to describe the process of changing something from one form or function to another. It can apply to various fields including energy, religion, or data.

  • The conversion of wind energy into electricity is environmentally friendly.
  • His conversion to a new religion surprised many of his friends.
repression

Used mainly in psychology to describe the act of suppressing or holding back undesirable thoughts, feelings, or memories. It carries a negative connotation as it implies unhealthy avoidance.

  • Repression of traumatic memories can lead to psychological issues later in life.
  • His repression of anger caused him to appear very calm, but it was eating him up inside.

Examples of usage

  • His sublimation of aggressive tendencies led him to excel in competitive sports.
  • She used sublimation to channel her feelings of anger into creating beautiful artworks.
Context #2 | Noun

in chemistry

Sublimation is the process of a substance changing directly from a solid to a gas without passing through the liquid phase.

Synonyms

evaporation, vaporization, volatilization.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sublimation

Used mainly in scientific contexts to describe the process where a solid turns directly into a gas without becoming a liquid.

  • Dry ice undergoes sublimation at room temperature.
  • In the lab, they observed the sublimation of iodine crystals.
vaporization

A general term used to describe the transition from liquid to gas, commonly used in scientific and technical contexts.

  • The vaporization of water in the boiler generated steam for the turbines.
  • They studied the vaporization process of different liquids at various temperatures.
evaporation

Refers to the process where liquid turns into gas, usually happening on the surface of the liquid. Commonly used in everyday situations and scientific contexts.

  • Water evaporation from the lake cooled the surrounding air.
  • The cook waited for the sauce to thicken through evaporation.
volatilization

Typically used in scientific and technical language to describe the process where a substance becomes a gas, often implying it can easily vaporize at normal temperatures.

  • The volatilization of ammonia at room temperature is quite rapid.
  • They monitored the volatilization rates of different chemical compounds.

Examples of usage

  • The dry ice sublimated when it was exposed to room temperature.
  • Camphor is a common example of a substance that undergoes sublimation.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Scientific Process

  • Sublimation occurs at temperatures and pressures below a substance's triple point, allowing it to skip the liquid phase entirely.
  • Common examples include dry ice (solid carbon dioxide) which turns directly into carbon dioxide gas when it warms up.
  • Sublimation is used in freeze-drying food, where moisture is removed from frozen items to preserve them.

Psychology

  • In psychology, sublimation refers to channeling unacceptable desires into socially acceptable activities, like turning anger into art.
  • Sigmund Freud viewed sublimation as a mature defense mechanism, helping individuals cope with anxiety and conflict in a productive way.
  • Creative pursuits, like writing or painting, can serve as avenues for sublimation, allowing emotional expression without negative consequences.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, the concept of sublimation represents transformation, such as moving from the material world to a higher spiritual state.
  • Eastern philosophies often relate sublimation to the journey of refining one's spirit and character through various challenges and experiences.
  • Sublimation is sometimes metaphorically used in literature to describe a character's evolution or personal growth.

Usage in Industry

  • In manufacturing, sublimation printing is a method where heat transfers dyes onto materials, making vibrant designs on fabrics and products.
  • Sublimation is crucial in the pharmaceutical industry for the development and stabilization of certain drugs, ensuring long shelf life.
  • Environmental scientists study sublimation in relation to ice and snow, as it affects water resource management in polar regions.

Origin of 'sublimation'

The term 'sublimation' originated in the field of chemistry in the 16th century from the Latin word 'sublimare', which means 'to lift up'. It was later adopted in psychology by Sigmund Freud to describe the process of redirecting socially unacceptable impulses into constructive activities. Over time, the concept of sublimation has been widely studied and applied in various disciplines.

See also: sublimity.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,599, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.