Tainted: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used when something is affected by an undesirable quality. It can also imply dishonesty or moral corruption.

• The evidence was tainted and couldn’t be used in court.
• His reputation was tainted by the scandal.

Typically used in situations where something has been made impure or unsuitable for use due to contact with harmful or unclean elements.

• The water supply is contaminated with harmful bacteria.
• Food can become contaminated if not stored properly.

Commonly used to describe environments or substances that have been made dirty or harmful due to toxic materials.

• The river is heavily polluted with industrial waste.
• Air in big cities can be very polluted.

Used when referring to something that has been altered from its original condition, often with negative or dishonest intentions.

• The data was corrupted and couldn’t be retrieved.
• The official was accused of being corrupted by bribes.

Used to describe food that is no longer good to eat or children who have been given too much indulgence.

• The milk was spoiled because it was left out overnight.
• The spoiled child threw a tantrum when he didn’t get his way.

Used when something has been spoiled or ruined, often with a sense of moral or ethical degradation.

• His reputation was tainted by the scandal.
• The water supply was tainted with a harmful chemical.

Appropriate for discussing the introduction of harmful or unwanted substances, especially in a medical or cleanliness context.

• The surgical instruments must be sterile and free from any contaminants.
• The bacteria contaminated the food, making it unsafe to eat.

Best suited for environmental context, referring to the act of making water, air, or land dirty and unsafe.

• Factories that pollute the river must be held accountable.
• Air pollution has become a serious problem in many large cities.

Used when referring to moral or ethical degradation, often in contexts involving dishonesty or bribery. This term carries a negative connotation.

• The official was found to be corrupt and was removed from office.
• The corruption in the system needs to be addressed immediately.