cause (an event or situation, typically one that is undesirable) to happen suddenly, unexpectedly, or prematurely

the incident precipitated a political crisis

cause (a substance) to be deposited in solid form from a solution

cell proteins were then precipitated and washed in 10% trichloroacetic acid

done, made, or acting suddenly or without careful consideration

I must apologize for my staff—their actions were precipitate

a substance precipitated from a solution