flaking
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈfleɪkɪŋ/
KK: /ˈfleɪkɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that is breaking or coming apart into small, thin pieces.
Example
The paint on the old wall is flaking off.
Conversation
Have you seen the new paint job on my old dresser?
Yeah, it looks cool, but it seems a bit flaking already.
I know, right? I thought it would hold up better than that.
Maybe it needs a better primer to stop the flaking.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
scaly
crumbly
fragmented
Antonyms
smooth
solid
unbroken
verb
Definition
To come off in small, thin pieces or layers.
Example
The paint on the old wall is flaking off.
Tense Forms
Past: flaked
Past Participle: flaked
Conversation
I noticed you’ve been flaking on our plans lately.
Yeah, I’m sorry about that. Life got a bit hectic.
I understand, but I really miss hanging out.
Root Explanation
Flaking originates from the Old English 'flacan', meaning to fly or to flake off. The word describes the action of something breaking off in thin pieces or layers.
Memory Tip
Think of something 'flying off' or breaking away in thin layers — that's what flaking means.
Visually Confused Words
flanking
laking
slaking
larking
fluking
flaring
flaming
fling