sloughing n 1: the process whereby something is shed [syn: {shedding}, {sloughing}]
Slough \Slough\, v. i. [imp. & p. p. {Sloughed}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Sloughing}.] (Med.) To form a slough; to separate in the form of dead matter from the living tissues; -- often used with off, or away; as, a sloughing ulcer; the dead tissues slough off slowly. [1913 Webster]
Sloughing \Slough"ing\, n. (Zool.) The act of casting off the skin or shell, as do insects and crustaceans; ecdysis. [1913 Webster]