sublimate

v. t. [ imp. & p. p. Sublimated p. pr. & vb. n. Sublimating. ] [ L. sublimatus, p. p. of sublimare to raise, elevate, fr. sublimis high: cf. F. sublimer. See Sublime, a., and cf. Surlime, v. t. ] 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. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. To refine and exalt; to heighten; to elevate. [ 1913 Webster ]

The precepts of Christianity are . . . so apt to cleanse and sublimate the more gross and corrupt. Dr. H. More. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. (Psychology) To redirect the energy (of sexual or other biological drives) into a more socially acceptable or constructive form. [ PJC ]

n. [ LL. sublimatum. ] (Chem.) A product obtained by sublimation; hence, also, a purified product so obtained. [ 1913 Webster ]

Corrosive sublimate. (Chem.) mercuric chloride. See Corrosive sublimate under Corrosive. [ 1913 Webster ]

a. [ LL. sublimatus. ] Brought into a state of vapor by heat, and again condensed as a solid. [ 1913 Webster ]