condensation

noun

con·​den·​sa·​tion ˌkän-ˌden-ˈsā-shən 

-dən-

1

: the act or process of condensing: such as

a

: a chemical reaction involving union between molecules often with elimination of a simple molecule (such as water) to form a new more complex compound of often greater molecular weight

b

: the conversion of a substance (such as water) from the vapor state to a denser liquid or solid state usually initiated by a reduction in temperature of the vapor

c

: compression of a written or spoken work into more concise form

an essay greatly in need of condensation

2

: the quality or state of being condensed

3

: a product of condensing

read a condensation of the long novel

condensational

ˌkän-ˌden-ˈsā-shnəl 

-shə-nᵊl

-dən-

adjective

Synonyms

• abbreviation
• abridgment
• abridgement
• bowdlerization
• digest

Examples of condensation in a Sentence

When we heat the house in the winter, condensation forms on the windows.

Condensation dripped from the air conditioner.

the processes of evaporation and condensation

The editor found condensation of the play very difficult.

a condensation of one of Shakespeare's plays

Recent Examples on the Web

Homes that have a problem with condensation can treat the issue with a dehumidifier, which reduces the amount of moisture in the air so cold surfaces, like water pipes or air conditioning vents, don't end up soaked in condensation on a warm day. —Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 July 2024

This step is essential to prevent condensation from forming inside your storage container, which can lead to ice crystals that negatively impact the flavor and texture of the dish. —Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 22 Oct. 2024

The gadget is made of insulated stainless steel that helps prevent condensation and keeps drinks chilled without ice. —Savannah Smith, Rolling Stone, 26 Sep. 2024

In our simulations, LAT builds up tiny clusters of 10 to 20 proteins at the beginning of the condensation process. —Trevor Grandpre, Scientific American, 14 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

condensation

noun

con·​den·​sa·​tion ˌkän-ˌden-ˈsā-shən 

-dən-

1

: the act or process of condensing

2

: the quality or state of being condensed

3

: a product of condensing

especially : a shortened literary work

Medical Definition

condensation

noun

con·​den·​sa·​tion ˌkän-ˌden-ˈsā-shən, -dən- 

1

: the act or process of condensing: as

a

: a chemical reaction involving union between molecules often with elimination of a simple molecule (as water) to form a new more complex compound of often greater molecular weight

b

: the conversion of a substance (as water) from the vapor state to a denser liquid or solid state usually initiated by a reduction in temperature of the vapor

2

: representation of several apparently discrete ideas by a single symbol especially in dreams

3

: an abnormal hardening of an organ or tissue

connective tissue condensations