tarnish Synonyms
Another word for tarnish
• verb (Context 1)
To damage, sully, or diminish the purity, value, or good reputation of someone or something.
"The financial scandal threatened to sully the reputation of the respected research institute."
• verb (Context 2)
To lose or cause a metal to lose its luster and become discolored, especially as a result of exposure to air or moisture.
"Silver cutlery will gradually discolor if left exposed to humid air for long periods."
• noun (Context 3)
A dullness of luster or a thin layer of discoloration on the surface of a metal caused by oxidation or chemical reaction.
"A gentle polish with a soft cloth quickly removed the dark discoloration from the antique silver teapot."
• noun (Context 4)
A moral stain, blemish, or loss of good reputation.
"Years of dedicated community service helped remove the blemish from the organization's public image."
Opposites of tarnish
The opposite of tarnish shifts depending on context. Common opposites include: