bleaching

[ blee-ching ]

noun

1. the application of bleach or another chemical agent to something in order to whiten, lighten, clean, or disinfect:

   Bleaching is not recommended for this fabric.

   She gives her kitchen countertops a weekly bleaching.

2. the process of becoming whiter or lighter in color, such as by prolonged exposure to sunlight, the application of chemicals, or other means:

   The bleaching of animal bones in the desert is a well-known phenomenon.

3. a loss of color in coral that indicates declining health: caused by a loss of the algae that normally live symbiotically in the coral's tissues.
4. Photography. the conversion of the silver image of a negative or print to a silver halide, either to remove the image or to change its tone.

Word History and Origins

Origin of bleaching¹

First recorded in 1550–60, bleaching fordef 1; 1970–75, bleaching fordef 3; bleach ( def ) + -ing ¹( def )

Example Sentences

“While we were there, we witnessed the very first stages of a bleaching event,” Dempsey said, referring to when coral becomes dead and white due to stress.

From Salon

Researchers have achieved a breakthrough in improving the efficiency of an electrochemical reaction that produces hydrogen peroxide -- a vital chemical for industrial applications such as disinfection, bleaching, and sewage treatment.

From Science Daily

Extreme heat has already caused five mass bleaching events in the past nine years alone.

From BBC

These roles are critical in helping reefs recover from disturbances such as storms and bleaching events.

From Science Daily

In April, scientists reported the fourth and largest global bleaching to date, now affecting more than 54% of the world’s coral reefs and growing by 1% a week.

From Los Angeles Times