Flaking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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flaking

[หˆfleษช.kษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

skin care

The process of small pieces of something such as paint, skin, or a substance coming off the surface of something

Synonyms

chipping, peeling, shedding.

Examples of usage

  • The old paint on the house was flaking off in large chunks.
  • After sunburn, my skin started flaking and peeling.
  • The dry mud on his boots was flaking off as he walked.
  • The cheap quality of the material resulted in it flaking easily.
  • The paint on the metal gate was flaking due to rust.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Art and Restoration

  • In art restoration, flaking is a common issue where paint layers separate from the canvas, often due to age or humidity.
  • Art conservators use special techniques to reattach flaking paint to preserve the artwork for future generations.

Psychology

  • People often experience the feeling of 'flaking' in social situations when they cancel plans last minute, which can impact friendships.
  • The term 'flaking' in psychology can refer to inconsistency in behavior, where a person does not follow through on commitments.

Material Science

  • Flaking can occur in various materials, from paint and coatings to skin, indicating a need for maintenance or repair.
  • Understanding how and why flaking occurs helps scientists develop better materials that last longer.

Nature

  • Flaking is also observed in nature, such as when tree bark sheds in thin layers as a part of its growth process.
  • In geology, flaking can describe how rocks break apart due to weathering, impacting the landscape.

Origin of 'flaking'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'flake' comes from the Old Norse word 'flak', which means a small piece or layer.
  • Flaking has been used since the 16th century in English, relating to things that break into small parts.

The word 'flaking' originates from the Old English word 'flacian', meaning 'to flutter or fall in flakes'. Over time, the term evolved to describe the process of small pieces coming off a surface. In modern usage, 'flaking' is commonly associated with skin care and paint maintenance.


See also: flake, flakey, flaky.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,734, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.