sublimation
noun/ˌsʌbləˈmeɪʃən/
Frequency rank: #19,232 most common English word
Meaning
The process of redirecting socially unacceptable impulses into constructive activities; also, the direct transition of a solid to a gas without passing through a liquid state.

Example sentence
The therapist explained that channeling anger into creative work is an example of sublimation in psychology.
Synonyms & related words
- redirection
- channeling
- transformation
- conversion
Practice this word in the quiz
More words in ranks 19,201–19,300
- paratrooperA soldier trained to parachute from aircraft into combat zones.
- pumiceA light, porous volcanic rock used for smoothing or polishing skin or surfaces.
- pupaThe life stage of an insect between larva and adult, during which it undergoes metamorphosis.
- rancorDeep, bitter resentment or ill will that lasts a long time.
- senescenceThe process of growing old; the gradual deterioration of function in an organism or cell with age.
- tadpolethe larval stage of a frog or toad, having a round body and a long tail and living in water.
- utilitarianismThe ethical theory that the best action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or well-being for the greatest number of people.
- windowsillthe flat ledge at the bottom of a window frame, either inside or outside.
- zealotA person who is fanatically devoted to a cause or belief.
- accrualThe accumulation or gradual increase of something, especially money or benefits, over time.