Distillation Meaning and Definition
Distillation
Pronunciation
/dɪsˈtɪləʃən/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
The process of purifying or separating a substance through the removal of impurities, often achieved through heating and cooling.
Examples
- Water distillation is used to produce clean drinking water.
- Fuel distillation is used to separate gasoline from other components.
Synonyms
- Purification
- Separation
Etymology
From Latin dispositio, “arrangement”, and Latin stillare, “to boil”, from stilla, “bubble”.
Usage Notes
Distillation is often used in scientific and industrial contexts, particularly in chemistry, biology, and medicine.
Cultural References
Distillation is mentioned in several science fiction works, including Isaac Asimov’s novel “Foundation” and the TV series “Star Trek”.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “To distill something down” means to simplify or summarize an idea or concept.
Related Words or Phrases
- Separate
- Purify
- Concentrate
Collocations
- Water distillation
- Gasoline distillation
- Essential oil distillation
Frequency of Use
Distillation is a common term in scientific and technical contexts, but less commonly used in everyday conversation.
Common Misspellings
- Distillite
- Distilote