\Lac*tes"cence\, n. [Cf. F. lactescence.]
1. The state or quality of producing milk, or milklike juice;
   resemblance to milk; a milky color.
         This lactescence does commonly ensue when . . . fair
         water is suddenly poured upon the solution. --Boyle.
2. (Bot.) The latex of certain plants. See {Latex}.