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Definition of discoloration
discoloration
/dɪsˌkʌl.əˈɹeɪ.ʃən/
(UK: discolouration)
dis · col · or · a · tion
Plural:discolorations
•Adjective:discolored
discoloration Lexical Profile
CEFR
B2
Grade
8
Tier
2
Usage
Top 10k
Syllables
5
discoloration Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
American The process of changing to a different, less attractive color, or the state of having an altered or faded color.
Example
"Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight caused noticeable discoloration of the antique wooden table."
2
American A stain, spot, or patch on a surface or on the skin that has a different color from its surroundings.
Example
"The dermatologist examined a small patch of discoloration on the patient's shoulder."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for discoloration• Rhymes for discoloration
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in the early 17th century from the verb 'discolor' (from Old French 'descolorer', from Medieval Latin 'discolorare') combined with the noun-forming suffix '-ation'.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.
180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Discoloration. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/discoloration