ef·flo·res·cence (fl-rsns)
n.
1. Botany A state or time of flowering; anthesis.
2.
a. A gradual process of unfolding or developing.
b. The highest point; the culmination. See Synonyms at bloom1.
3. Chemistry
a. The deposit that results from the process of efflorescing. Also called bloom1.
b. The process of efflorescing.
c. A growth of salt crystals on a surface caused by evaporation of salt-laden water.
4. Pathology Redness, a rash, or an eruption on the skin.
efflo·rescent adj.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition copyright ©2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2003. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
mark bloom-on-the-rose Bailey
