# distilled

/dɪˈstɪɫd/ (US) · /dɪstˈɪld/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/distilled
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

describing something that has been simplified to its most important parts. It can also describe a liquid that has been purified by boiling it and cooling the steam.

For teachers: Refers to the essence of an idea or text after removing superfluous details; also describes a substance purified through evaporation and condensation. Often used as a participial adjective in both literal and figurative contexts.

## Examples

- The book provides a distilled version of the complex history.
- After hours of debate, the committee presented a distilled set of recommendations that addressed the core concerns of the staff.
- The poet's work offers a distilled reflection on grief, stripping away narrative artifice to leave only the raw emotional resonance of the experience.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a participial adjective before a noun; in its figurative sense, it frequently pairs with 'essence' or 'version'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.