Separation \Sep`a*ra"tion\, n. [L. separatio: cf. F. s['e]paration.]

The act of separating, or the state of being separated, or separate. Specifically:
   (a) Chemical analysis.
   (b) Divorce.
   (c) (Steam Boilers) The operation of removing water from steam.

Judicial separation (Law), a form of divorce; a separation of man and wife which has the effect of making each a single person for all legal purposes but without ability to contract a new marriage. --Mozley & W.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)