Definition

A process where something develops or unfolds, often referring to the blooming of flowers or the formation of salt crystals on surfaces due to evaporation.

Example

The efflorescence on the wall indicated a moisture problem in the building.

Conversation

Have you ever noticed the efflorescence on that old wall down the street?

Yeah, I saw it the other day; it's kind of fascinating actually.

I wonder what causes that kind of efflorescence to appear.

It’s probably due to the salt from the water evaporating, which makes those crystals grow.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Efflorescence is formed from "ex-" (meaning out) and "florescere" (meaning to bloom or blossom). The word describes the process of blooming or flowering out, often used in the context of salts forming on surfaces as they crystallize and emerge.

Memory Tip

Think of something 'blooming out' — 'ex-' means out, and 'florescere' means to bloom. This helps you remember that efflorescence refers to the process of something blooming or crystallizing out.

Visually Confused Words