[ex.fo.li.ate] vb -at.ed ; -at.ing [LL exfoliatus, pp. of exfoliare to strip of leaves, fr. L ex- + folium leaf--more at blade] vt (1612) 1: to cast off in scales, laminae, or splinters
2: to remove the surface of in scales or laminae
3: to spread or extend by or as if by opening out leaves ~ vi 1: to split into or give off scales, laminae, or body cells
2: to come off in thin layers or scales
3: to grow by or as if by producing or unfolding leaves -- ex.fo.li.a.tion n -- ex.fo.li.a.tive adj