tarnish

Pronunciation

• IPA ^(key): /ˈtɑrnɪʃ/

• Audio (US)

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Noun

Singular tarnish

Plural tarnishes

1. The discoloration of some metals when exposed to air

   The tarnish on the silver tea pot must be removed.

Verb

Plain form tarnish

Third-person singular tarnishes

Past tense tarnished

Past participle tarnished

Present participle tarnishing

1. To discolor a metal due to exposure to the air

   Silver tea pots tarnish easily.

   Careful storage of silver will prevent it from tarnishing.

2. To soil, sully, damage or compromise

   The rumors tarnished Jane's reputation.

Adjective

Positive tarnish

Comparative none

Superlative none

1. Damaged, sullied, soiled, compromised
2. John's tarnished reputation cost him the respect of his co-workers.