efflorescence

/ˌɛfləˈrɛsəns/
noun
  1. A period or state of great development, success, or activity; a flowering or flourishing.
    • The company's efflorescence came after years of careful planning and investment.
    • The 1920s were an efflorescence of art and culture in Paris.
    • Spring brings an efflorescence of wildflowers across the meadow.
  2. A white, powdery deposit that forms on the surface of bricks, concrete, or stone when water brings salts to the surface.
    • Efflorescence on the basement walls indicated a moisture problem.
    • The mason cleaned the efflorescence off the new patio stones with a brush.
    • The old brick wall had a white efflorescence that crumbled when touched.
Antonyms