flaked

Flaked is the past participle of the verb flake and can function as an adjective. It describes things that are composed of, or covered with, thin, flat pieces called flakes. It also denotes the act of shedding or breaking into thin layers or pieces.

In materials and finishes, the term often describes a surface where a coating has peeled away in irregular, thin sheets, such as flaked paint or flaked plaster. It may indicate deterioration, or, conversely, be used to describe decorative or textured finishes that intentionally resemble flakes.

In food, flaked refers to ingredients that have been broken or cut into small, flat pieces. Common examples include flaked salmon or tuna, flaked coconut, and flaked fish products used in salads, garnishes, and cereals. The descriptor emphasizes tenderness and separability of the pieces.

In colloquial English, flaky describes a person who is unreliable or habitually fails to meet commitments. To flake on someone means to cancel or miss plans at the last moment, often without notice.

The term is widely used across disciplines, from cooking to construction to social slang, and its meaning is largely determined by context.