Pronunciation: [ˌɛfləɹˈɛsənt] (IPA) 
The word "efflorescent" is spelled e-f-f-l-o-r-e-s-c-e-n-t. In terms of phonetics, it can be transcribed as /ɛˌflɔrəˈsɛnt/. The word refers to the process of blooming or flowering, particularly in regards to substances like salts or crystals. It's important to note the double "f" and "s" used in the spelling to ensure the correct pronunciation. The word is derived from the Latin "efflorescere," meaning "to flower out."
Efflorescent is an adjective that is used to describe the process or characteristic of efflorescence. Efflorescence refers to the formation of white, crystalline deposits on the surface of materials, particularly porous ones like concrete, plaster, or brick, due to the evaporation of water from within the material. These deposits are usually powdery in nature and are composed of salts that were dissolved in the water.
In a broader context, efflorescent can also be used metaphorically to describe something becoming vibrant, blossoming, or reaching a peak of growth or development. It conveys a sense of flourishing or expanding in a way that is visually or aesthetically stunning. This usage typically refers to the beauty or brilliance of natural phenomena, such as a full bloom of flowers or the radiant colors of a sunset.
Overall, efflorescent carries the dual meanings of the physical formation of white deposits on surfaces as well as the metaphorical expression of vibrant growth or blossoming. Its usage depends on the specific context, whether it relates to the visual appearance of crystalline substances or the figurative description of something flourishing and expanding.
Noting a crystalline body which gradually changes to a powder by losing its water of crystallization when exposed to the air.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Shooting out in flowers; forming a white powder on the surface; throwing out minute needle-like crystals.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "efflorescent" has its roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word "efflorescere", which is a combination of "ex-" (meaning "out") and "florescere" (meaning "to bloom" or "to flower"). Therefore, "efflorescent" carries the idea of something "blooming out" or "flowering out", which describes its meaning of the process where a substance or material crystallizes and forms a powdery deposit on its surface due to the evaporation of water or other solvents.
