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to exfoliate
01
to shed materials in small pieces, layers, or scales
Intransitive
Examples
The tree bark exfoliates as it grows, revealing a smoother layer underneath.
Certain paint finishes may exfoliate, leading to the need for repainting.
02
to remove dead or dry skin cells from the surface of the skin, usually by using a scrub or exfoliating product
Transitive: to exfoliate the skin
Examples
After a long day outdoors, she likes to exfoliate her skin to remove any dirt and dead cells.
He exfoliates his face twice a week to keep his skin smooth and free from breakouts.
03
to unfold or expand in a manner similar to the opening of leaves
Intransitive
Examples
The flower petals exfoliated in the warm sunlight, revealing their vibrant colors.
As the fern grows, its fronds exfoliate gracefully, forming a lush canopy in the forest.
04
to remove thin layers of material from a surface
Transitive: to exfoliate layers of material
Examples
Over time, weathering can exfoliate the outer layers of rock, revealing the underlying structure.
High winds can exfoliate the paint on wooden surfaces, exposing the bare wood underneath.
05
to facilitate the unfolding or spreading out of something, resembling the process of leaves unfurling
Transitive: to exfoliate a sheet
Examples
The gardener exfoliated the plant's leaves by gently massaging them, encouraging them to open fully.
The art teacher showed the students how to exfoliate the paper by dampening it before painting.
06
(of rocks or minerals) to peel or flake off thin layers as a result of exposure to weathering or heating processes
Intransitive
Examples
The granite boulders exfoliated over time, revealing smooth surfaces where layers had peeled away.
The sandstone cliffs exfoliated in the desert heat, leaving behind sheer faces with exposed layers.
Lexical Tree
exfoliation
exfoliate
