online medical dictionary | definition of sublimate

1. To bring by heat into the state of vapor, which, on cooling, returns again to the solid state; as, to sublimate sulphur or camphor.

2. To refine and exalt; to heighten; to elevate. "The precepts of Christianity are . . . So apt to cleanse and sublimate the more gross and corrupt." (Dr. H. More)

Origin: L. Sublimatus, p.p. Of sublimare to raise, elevate, fr. Sublimis high: cf. F. Sublimer. See Sublime, and cf. Surlime.

<chemistry> A product obtained by sublimation; hence, also, a purified product so obtained. Corrosive sublimate.

<chemistry> See Corrosive.

Origin: LL. Sublimatum.

(01 Mar 1998)