/ ˌdelɪˈkwes; NAmE / verb [ v ] ( formal )
1.
to become liquid as a result of decaying
2.
( chemistry ) to become liquid as a result of absorbing water from the air
► deli·ques·cence / ˌdelɪˈkwesns; NAmE / noun [ U ]
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WORD ORIGIN
mid 18th cent.: from Latin deliquescere dissolve, from de- down + liquescere become liquid (from liquere be liquid).