n 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 usu. initiated by a reduction in temperature of the vapor  2  :  representation of several apparently discrete ideas by a single symbol esp. in dreams  3  :  an abnormal hardening of an organ or tissue <connective tissue s>  .
 
   
 
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