alligatoring
/ˈalɪɡeɪt(ə)rɪŋ/originally and chiefly US
noun
The development of intersecting cracks in paint, varnish, etc., caused by contraction and resulting in a surface resembling the skin of an alligator.
Origin
Early 20th century; earliest use found in 739 Paint Questions Answered. From alligator + -ing.