Efflux

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈɛˌflʌks/

Definitions

• The act of flowing out or the process of something issuing forth.
• A discharge or outward movement of fluid, gas, or matter.
• The passing away or gradual loss of something over time.

Usage Examples

• The efflux of water from the dam was carefully controlled.
• The scientist studied the efflux of gas from the volcanic crater.
• With the efflux of time, the ancient manuscript had faded significantly.

Etymology

Derived from Latin "effluxus," past participle of "effluere," meaning "to flow out," from "ex-" (out) + "fluere" (to flow).

Synonyms

• Outflow
• Emission
• Discharge
• Exudation

Antonyms

• Influx
• Absorption
• Intake

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /ˈɛˌflʌks/
• American English: /ˈɛˌflʌks/
• Australian English: /ˈɛˌflʌks/

Historical Usage

The term "efflux" has been in use since the 17th century, primarily in scientific and philosophical discourse, describing the flow of time, energy, or substances.

Cultural Nuances

In scientific contexts, efflux refers to the outward movement of fluids in biological and chemical systems, whereas in philosophy, it symbolizes the inevitable passage of time and change.

More Information

Efflux is commonly used in environmental science to describe the discharge of pollutants into water bodies and in biology to refer to the movement of substances across cell membranes. The efflux pump mechanism in bacteria is a major factor in antibiotic resistance.