Steam

Steam refers primarily to the gaseous phase of water, formed when water is heated and undergoes a phase transition from liquid to vapor. This invisible gas can be used for a wide range of purposes, from generating power and cleaning to cooking and sterilizing. Beyond the scientific context, 'steam' can also figuratively describe rapid movement, emotional intensity, or even outdated technology. Its properties, particularly its heat and expansive force, are often harnessed in various industrial and domestic applications. The word's versatility allows it to represent both tangible and abstract concepts.

Steam meaning with examples

• The industrial revolution heavily relied on Steam power; Steam engines powered factories and locomotives. Water was heated to create Steam, which drove pistons and generated mechanical energy, changing transport forever. Early Steam trains would let out a lot of Steam when heading down hill. Steam allowed for the expansion of trade and migration. The impact of Steam on society was massive.
• Before the invention of electric sterilizers, hospitals relied on Steam autoclaves to sterilize surgical instruments. These autoclaves utilized high-pressure Steam to kill bacteria and viruses, ensuring a sterile environment for medical procedures. This process was essential in preventing infections and improving patient safety in a pre-antibiotic era. Sterilizing medical equipment with Steam is still common in developed countries, and its efficiency continues to make it a standard procedure.
• The pressure cooker uses Steam to cook food at a higher temperature than boiling water, thus reducing cooking time. The trapped Steam increases the internal pressure, raising the boiling point of the water and expediting the cooking process. This allows foods to cook faster and retain more nutrients, and often tenderizes tough cuts of meat in less time than conventional methods.
• After the argument, John needed to 'blow off steam' and took a long walk in the park. He felt frustrated and angry and needed to release that emotional steam. He took some deep breaths, and walked in silence to let the stress evaporate. It allowed him to calm down and process his emotions without yelling or engaging in a heated argument.
• As the old car sputtered to life, it let out a plume of Steam from the engine, a sign of its aging technology. The driver looked at the outdated mechanism that still performed with Steam in an age of electric vehicles. The once-reliable technology now became a symbol of a bygone era in the evolution of automotive engineering.
• The game launched in the 2000s, Steam allows users to manage and purchase PC games from a central, digital storefront. The user interface allows for easy access to an enormous library of games, updates, and community features. This system revolutionized the way games were bought, installed, and played on PCs, and has changed the video game industry.