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noun C2 Proficient

crystallization

kris-tuh-ly-ZAY-shuhn
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Crystallization (noun) means the process by which a substance forms a solid crystal from a solution, melt or vapour. Example: “Crystallization of the sugar began once the syrup cooled.”

noun
1
The process by which a substance forms a solid crystal from a solution, melt or vapour.
"Crystallization of the sugar began once the syrup cooled."
"Scientists study crystallization to understand how minerals form."
"Slow crystallization produces larger, more regular crystals."
2
The process by which an idea, plan or feeling becomes more definite and clear.
"Her plan only reached crystallization after months of thought."
"The crystallization of public opinion took the government by surprise."
"It took a long conversation for his goals to reach crystallization."

How to use crystallization

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishCrystallization is the process of something taking solid, definite shape, whether that is a crystal or an idea.

When to use it

It is used in both technical scientific writing and general, more figurative writing.

Memory tip

The British spelling uses an s (crystallisation) while the American spelling uses a z (crystallization).

Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
process of crystallization crystallization of ideas slow crystallization crystallization point
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_____ of the sugar began once the syrup cooled.

Etymology

The word is formed from crystal with the suffix -ization added to describe the process of becoming a crystal.

Origin: English

Rhymes for crystallization

See all rhymes for crystallization →

Frequently asked questions

What does crystallization mean in chemistry?
It refers to the process in which a solid forms as a crystal out of a solution, a melt, a vapour, or another solid phase.
What does crystallization mean outside of science?
It can also describe an idea, plan or feeling becoming clearer and more definite over time.
Is crystallisation spelled differently in British English?
Yes, British English commonly uses crystallisation with an s, while American English uses crystallization with a z.
What is the meaning of crystallization?
"crystallization" (noun) means the process by which a substance forms a solid crystal from a solution, melt or vapour.