Definitions of etiolation:

  • noun:   (botany) the act of causing a plant to develop without chlorophyll by growing it without exposure to sunlight
    Example: "The etiolation of celery"
  • noun:   the act of weakening by stunting the growth or development of something
    Example: "The etiolation of the critical tradition"
  • noun:   a pale and sickly appearance
    Example: "His etiolation signaled years in prison"