sublimate
verb (used with object)
to divert the energy of (a sexual or other biological impulse) from its immediate goal to one of a more acceptable social, moral, or aesthetic nature or use.
sublimating
-
present participleof sublimate.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In earlier work, she showed that sublimating CO2 ice can trigger debris flows that cut deep channels along crater walls.
From Science Daily ● Oct. 16, 2025
Yet they have enough in common that one might think they could be friends: Each is frustrated with life, work, their domestic arrangements, their parents; depressed; and sublimating their anger except as regards the other.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 10, 2023
They are way too bound up in the past, with Gretchen likely sublimating her attraction to Luke, and Aaron suppressing his once-budding relationship with Ellie.
From Salon ● May 19, 2021
Not only do they prevent solid ice from sublimating into vapor, they also shield planets from harmful radiation and help regulate surface temperatures within a stable range.
From Scientific American ● May 30, 2017
“You’re just sublimating your own frustration with my income.”
From "Paper Towns" by John Green
