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tarnish

noun verb

discoloration of metal surface caused by oxidation

Quick reference

Word Facts

Word length
7
Starts with
T
Ends with
H
Contains
AR
Scrabble score
10
Database source
OEWN 2025 Core

How it sounds

Pronunciation

ˈtɑɹnɪʃ

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Audio Pronunciation

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Meaning

Definitions

noun

  1. discoloration of metal surface caused by oxidation

verb

  1. make dirty or spotty, as by exposure to air; also used metaphorically

    “The silver was tarnished by the long exposure to the air”

In context

Example Sentences

The silver was tarnished by the long exposure to the air
Her reputation was sullied after the affair with a married man

Similar words

Synonyms

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