efflorescence

[ ef-luh-res-uhns ]

noun

1. the state or a period of flowering.
2. an example or result of growth and development:

   These works are the efflorescence of his genius.

3. Chemistry.
   1. the act or process of efflorescing.
   2. the resulting powdery substance or incrustation.
4. Pathology. a rash or eruption of the skin.

efflorescence

/ ˌɛflɔːˈrɛsəns /

noun

1. a bursting forth or flowering
2. chem geology
   1. the process of efflorescing
   2. the powdery substance formed as a result of this process, esp on the surface of rocks
3. any skin rash or eruption

efflorescence

/ ĕf′lə-rĕs′əns /

1. A whitish, powdery deposit on the surface of rocks or soil in dry regions. It is formed as mineral-rich water rises to the surface through capillary action and then evaporates. Efflorescence usually consists of gypsum, salt, or calcite.
2. See anthesis

Derived Forms

• ˌeffloˈrescent, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of efflorescence¹

1620–30; < French < Medieval Latin efflōrēscentia. See effloresce, -ence

Example Sentences

In Los Angeles, the baby boomer generation that arose after World War II coincided with the military-backed efflorescence of the aerospace industry.

From Los Angeles Times

Each time I drive past it, I see the growing snow-white patch of efflorescence salts.

From Seattle Times

Mr. Laine was part of the efflorescence of British rock music in the early 1960s, when many young musicians were still soaking up the influence of American blues.

From New York Times

An efflorescence of capitalism at home and overseas followed, and with it the beginnings of a colonial empire.

From New York Times

And at first, no one appeared to benefit from the efflorescence more than the writers.

From Los Angeles Times