Discoloration: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'discoloration' when referring to a general change in color, especially when it affects appearance negatively but is not overly strong in connotation.

• The shirt had discoloration after being washed with bleach.
• There is some discoloration on the walls due to water damage.

Use 'staining' when referring to a process of causing or having marks that are difficult to remove or when permanent marks are involved. It often carries a slightly negative connotation.

• The red wine caused staining on the carpet.
• Dental staining can occur from drinking coffee regularly.

Use 'discolorment' similarly to 'discoloration', though it is less commonly used. It refers to the process of becoming discolored. It's often used in more formal or technical contexts.

• The discolorment of the fabric was caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight.
• He noticed the discolorment on the old manuscripts.

Use 'blemish' when referring to a small mark or flaw that spoils the appearance of something, often used in contexts related to skin or any surface.

• She had a small blemish on her cheek.
• The table had a blemish that reduced its value.

This term is generally used in a medical or scientific context to describe a change in color of skin or objects, often implying a negative or abnormal condition.

• The doctor noticed a discoloration on the patient's skin
• The metal showed signs of discoloration after being exposed to the elements

Typically used in everyday language to refer to marks or spots that have affected the appearance of materials, often implying a negative outcome from substances like food or drink.

• The wine spilled, causing staining on the tablecloth
• The jeans show signs of staining after outdoor activities

A less common synonym, it shares similar contexts with 'discoloration' but is seldom used in everyday language. It may appear in more formal or written contexts.

• The report mentioned discolorment of the fibers after the chemical reaction
• The discolorment of the leaves indicated a disease

This term specifically refers to an aspect of discoloration where something turns yellow, often used for aging papers, teeth, or plants.

• The old book showed signs of yellowing pages
• She noticed the yellowing of her teeth after years of coffee drinking

Use when referring to a change in color typically due to damage, exposure to elements, or physical alteration. Often used in medical or material contexts.

• The doctor noted a slight discoloration in the patient's skin.
• The book cover showed signs of discoloration from the sun.

Refers to the process when food or other perishables go bad or become unsuitable for consumption. It has a negative connotation.

• Milk spoiling is prevented by keeping it refrigerated.
• You can smell when meat is starting to spoil.

A general term for any change of color. This term can be neutral and applied broadly across different contexts, such as art, clothing, or nature.

• The leaves undergo a color change in the fall.
• A color change indicates that the chemical reaction is complete.

Used when discussing the natural breakdown or decomposition of organic material, such as food, plants, or even buildings. The term often has a negative connotation.

• The fruit began to decay after being left out in the sun.
• They are working to prevent the decay of ancient buildings.