recrystallize

[ ree-kris-tl-ahyz ]

verb (used without object)

, re·crys·tal·lized, re·crys·tal·liz·ing.

1. to become crystallized again.
2. Metallurgy. (of a metal) to acquire a new granular structure with new crystals because of plastic deformation, as when hot-worked.

verb (used with object)

, re·crys·tal·lized, re·crys·tal·liz·ing.

1. to crystallize again.

recrystallize

/ riːˈkrɪstəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. chem to dissolve and subsequently crystallize (a substance) from the solution, as in purifying chemical compounds, or (of a substance) to crystallize in this way
2. to undergo or cause to undergo the process in which a deformed metal forms a new set of undeformed crystal grains

Derived Forms

• reˌcrystalliˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• re·crystal·li·zation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of recrystallize¹

First recorded in 1790–1800; re- + crystallize

Example Sentences

"Essentially it works like this: when concrete cracks, water or moisture enters and the crack widens and spreads throughout the structure. The lime clasts dissolve with the infiltration of water and provide calcium ions that recrystallize and repair the cracks. Additionally, the calcium ions can react with volcanic ingredients to reinforce the structure," Masic said.

From Reuters

Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Harvard University and in Italy and Switzerland found that the Romans used a process called “hot mixing,” which causes the concrete to recrystallize automatically when cracks start to form.

From Washington Times

As salts dissolve and recrystallize, they can alter pigment colors, create cracks, and more.

From Scientific American

That’s one of the great things about rarely sung songs: They can quickly recrystallize to reflect new circumstances.

From New York Times

For example, when you melt granulated sugar, it liquifies, but eventually it will want to recrystallize; corn syrup stays smooth and glossy.

From Salon