To redirect the energy (of sexual or other biological drives) into a more socially acceptable or constructive form.

to divert the energy of (an emotion or impulse arising from a primitive instinct) into a culturally higher activity.

The expression of an "unacceptable" impulse or urge in a positive or acceptable way. The standard of unacceptable and acceptable usually relate to societal norms.

direct energy or urges into useful activities

The unconscious act of converting instinctual drives and urges into actions that are considered socially acceptable.