Word Archaeology: efflorescence

Generally speaking, efflorescence means blossoming or reaching a culmination. In medicine, the term can be used to refer to a rash. In chemistry, this word refers to the process of salt migrating to the surface and coating a porous material, such as concrete. Basically, water or some other solvent containing salt move to the surface and leaves the salt coating after evaporation. Efflorescence, in French, means “to flower out”. The word was first used circa 1626.

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Wes Platt

Lead storyteller. Game designer and journalist. Recovering Floridian.

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