Flaking

Flaking, in its most common usage, refers to the process of a surface material shedding small, often thin pieces, leading to a deteriorated appearance or reduced integrity. This can occur due to various factors, including age, exposure to elements, wear and tear, or the presence of certain chemical reactions. The resulting fragments, or flakes, can vary in size and shape, and the extent of flaking often indicates the severity of the deterioration. It is a visual indicator of degradation in numerous materials, such as paint, skin, metal, and rock.

Flaking meaning with examples

• The old house's exterior paint was severely flaking, revealing layers of previous colors underneath. A strong breeze could send flakes of paint falling to the ground. The homeowner knew he had to do some repair work and repaint soon. They wanted to avoid more degradation on the surface.
• After spending too much time in the sun, my skin began flaking, especially on my shoulders and nose. I forgot to apply sunscreen. It became itchy and uncomfortable, as the top layer of skin dried out and peeled. Hydrating after this can prevent it.
• The rusted metal gate was flaking in numerous spots, exposing the raw iron beneath. The salt air contributed to the oxidation. Its once smooth surface was now rough and pitted with rust and missing pieces. This made it look old and need to be replaced.
• The ancient rock formation showed signs of flaking, indicating the slow process of erosion. The wind and rain worked against the rock's integrity. Over time, pieces of stone would break off, contributing to the rock's gradual degradation. This can be seen as a process that occurs slowly over years.
• The artist's oil painting had begun to show signs of flaking, a common problem with older works. Paint on the canvas detached and the picture became more difficult to see. This could be a result of changes in temperature or humidity. Conservation efforts were necessary.