What does peeling mean?
Peeling is an adjective and verb form associated with surfaces that are coming apart or with the act of removing an outer layer. It most often describes paint, wallpaper, varnish, or plaster that has begun to lift, flake, or curl away from the wall beneath it. People also say that skin is peeling, especially after sunburn, an allergic reaction, or a chemical treatment. As a verb form, peeling describes stripping an outer layer from something: fruit, vegetables, wallpaper, or old paint. The word has a practical, everyday tone and is especially useful when describing deterioration in a building. Its clear image of a surface separating into strips makes it an effective word for describing gradual damage, wear, and the loss of an intact finish.
Coming away from a surface in strips, flakes, or curls; especially describing paint, wallpaper, or other coverings that are separating.
"They replaced the peeling paint in the hallway."
Commonly used with paint, wallpaper, plaster, varnish, and other surface coverings.
Present participle of peel: removing an outer layer from a surface or object.
"He was peeling potatoes at the kitchen counter."
In the verbal form, it is normally used with an object.
Paint begins to peel long before a wall looks ruined, making peeling one of the clearest signs that water or weather has found its way into a building.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does peeling come from?
The word derives from the Old English verb pīlan, meaning to peel, strip, or remove an outer layer. The modern spelling "peel" reflects the later simplification of the vowel, while the present-participle form "peeling" follows the usual English pattern of adding -ing to the verb. The related noun "peeler" developed from the same root and names a tool or device used for removing skins or outer layers. The word is also cognate with forms in several Germanic languages expressing the idea of stripping or peeling.
Related word forms
How peeling is actually used
In its most common adjectival use, peeling usually describes paint, wallpaper, plaster, or other surface coverings. The verbal form is normally used with an object: "peel paint" or "peel an apple." "Peeling skin" can describe a medical or cosmetic condition, such as sunburn or peeling after a chemical peel.
Easily confused with peeling
Peeling means a surface or covering is coming away in strips or flakes, whereas pealing describes the ringing of bells.