from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Rectify \Rec"ti*fy\ (-f?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Rectified}
(-f?d); p. pr. & vb. n. {Rectifying} (-f?`?ng).] [F.
rectifier, LL. rectificare; L. rectus right + -ficare (in
comp.) to make. See {Right}, and {-fy}.]
1. To make or set right; to correct from a wrong, erroneous,
or false state; to amend; as, to rectify errors, mistakes,
or abuses; to rectify the will, the judgment, opinions; to
rectify disorders.
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I meant to rectify my conscience. --Shak.
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This was an error of opinion which a conflicting
opinion would have rectified. --Burke.
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2. (Chem.) To refine or purify by repeated distillation or
sublimation, by which the fine parts of a substance are
separated from the grosser; as, to rectify spirit of wine.
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3. (Com.) To produce ( as factitious gin or brandy) by
redistilling low wines or ardent spirits (whisky, rum,
etc.), flavoring substances, etc., being added.
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{To rectify a globe}, to adjust it in order to prepare for
the solution of a proposed problem.
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Syn: To amend; emend; correct; better; mend; reform; redress;
adjust; regulate; improve. See {Amend}.
[1913 Webster] Rectilineal