efflux

[ ef-luhks ]

noun

1. outward flow, as of water.
2. something that flows out; effluence.
3. a passing or lapse of time.
4. a passing away; expiration; ending.

Word History and Origins

Origin of efflux¹

1635–45; < Medieval Latin effluxus, equivalent to Latin ef- ef- + fluc-, variant stem of fluere to flow + -sus, for -tus suffix of v. action

Example Sentences

Some mutate their genes to produce specific efflux proteins that “escort” the trespassing antibiotic molecules out as soon as they enter the cell.

From Nautilus

In efflux of time that rule, become habitual, would be, "No marriage within the local group."

From Project Gutenberg

In many tribes the meaning of their names, like the meaning of too many phratry names, might be forgotten with efflux of time.

From Project Gutenberg

Efflux is that which flows from, and is generally predicated of that which proceeds from below upwards.

From Project Gutenberg

But these latter personages are partly paid for watching the efflux of time, and no doubt they will do their duty.

From Project Gutenberg

Whitman said, 'Happiness is the efflux of soul,' which is exactly true, but it didn't help me until I had experience.

From Project Gutenberg