Efflorescence
Word of the Day
What is Efflorescence?
noun
The action or process of developing and unfolding as if coming into flower; the state or period of flowering.
Pronunciation
Why This Word?
Chosen for gardens and creative scenes at full tilt.
Examples of Use
Here's how this word appears in everyday language:
Efflorescence along the river drew painters.
A civic efflorescence transformed public space.
Salt efflorescence mottled the brickwork.
Word Origins
French efflorescence, from Latin efflorescere "to blossom"
Also a chemistry term: crystal salts blooming on surfaces.
First appearance in English: mid-18th century
Word Family
Related forms of this word:
-
Verb:
Ideas flourished after the grant.
-
Noun:
The bloom was spectacular this year.
-
Noun:
Anthesis lasted a few hours.
Around the World
How this word appears in other languages:
- Spanish: eflorescencia
- French: efflorescence
- German: Aufblühen / Ausblühung
- Italian: efflorescenza
- Portuguese: eflorescência
If you Already Know This Word
If you've mastered this word, try these more advanced alternatives:
Apogee
Highest point; efflorescence emphasizes flowering.
Zenith
Peak height; efflorescence is qualitative bloom.
Culmination
General peak; less botanical.
Fun Facts
- In botany, "anthesis" is the precise moment of flower opening.
- Desert blooms can create sudden regional efflorescences.
Cultural Usage
- Paris saw an efflorescence of salons and schools.
- Efflorescence on masonry indicates moisture migration.
Common Mistakes
Not "effervescence" (bubbling).
Micro Story
The movement reached efflorescence in the 1890s.