displacement /displās″mənt/ [Fr, deplacement, to remove] , 1. the state of being displaced or the act of displacing. 2. (in chemistry) a reaction in which an atom, molecule, or radical is removed from combination and replaced by another. 3. (in physics) the displacing in space of one mass by another, as when the weight or volume of a fluid is displaced by a floating or submerged body. 4. (in psychiatry) an unconscious defense mechanism for avoiding emotional conflict and anxiety by transferring emotions, ideas, or wishes from one object to a substitute that is less anxiety-producing. Compare sublimation. See also percolation. 5. (in public health) the involuntary act of being removed from one’s home or familiar surroundings as the result of a disaster, war, or other circumstance over which one has no control. This type of displacement leads to numerous health challenges.
