English dictionary

tarnish

noun

Pronunciation

ˈtɑɹnɪʃ

Audio pronunciation

Parts of speech

Definitions

noun

  1. discoloration of metal surface caused by oxidation

verb

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

Example sentences

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

Synonyms

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