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Tarnish Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tarnish

[ˈtɑːrnɪʃ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

metal

To lose or cause to lose luster, especially through exposure to air or moisture.

Synonyms

corrode, oxidize, rust.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tarnish

This term is often used to describe the loss of luster or discoloration that occurs on metals, especially silver, due to exposure to air or moisture. It can also metaphorically refer to damaging someone's reputation.

  • The silverware began to tarnish after being left out in the open
  • His actions caused his reputation to tarnish
corrode

Typically used to describe the gradual destruction or weakening of materials, especially metals, due to chemical reactions, often with water and air. It has a somewhat stronger and more general implication than other terms.

  • The pipes began to corrode after years of exposure to damp conditions
  • Neglect and mismanagement will corrode the organization's foundation
rust

Specifically refers to the reddish-brown flaky coating that forms on iron or steel when it oxidizes. It is used mainly for metals like iron and is often seen as a sign of neglect or aging.

  • The old bicycle had started to rust after being left out all winter
  • The abandoned car was covered in rust
oxidize

Used to describe a chemical reaction where a substance combines with oxygen, often resulting in rust or tarnish on metals. It's a more scientific term that is not as commonly used in everyday language.

  • When exposed to air, iron will oxidize and form rust
  • Apples will oxidize and turn brown once they've been cut

Examples of usage

  • The silver had tarnished and lost its shine.
  • The copper coin tarnished over time.
Context #2 | Noun

reputation

To damage or destroy someone's reputation.

Synonyms

besmirch, defame, sully.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tarnish

Typically used when referring to the loss of luster or becoming less shiny, both literally and figuratively. Often related to reputation or physical objects.

  • The scandal tarnished his reputation.
  • The silverware began to tarnish after years of neglect.
defame

Commonly used in a legal and formal context when someone makes false statements to harm another's reputation. It implies intentional harm.

  • She sued the magazine for defaming her good character.
  • The article defamed the company's CEO, leading to a lawsuit.
besmirch

Used when accusing someone of causing harm to someone else's name, reputation, or character. This word often carries a stronger, more deliberate negative connotation.

  • He tried to besmirch her good name with false accusations.
  • The politician's opponents besmirched his record with allegations of corruption.
sully

Often used to describe the act of damaging or staining someone's reputation or the purity of something. It has a slightly poetic or formal tone.

  • He would never sully his hands with such dishonest work.
  • The scandal sullied the image of the once-respected institution.

Examples of usage

  • The scandal tarnished the politician's reputation.
  • The company's image was tarnished by the scandal.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Tarnish often occurs in metals like silver, copper, and brass due to chemical reactions with sulfur compounds in the air.
  • It's a natural process for certain metals, acting like a protective layer against deeper corrosion.
  • The rate of tarnishing can be influenced by environmental factors, including humidity, temperature, and exposure to pollutants.

Art

  • In the world of art, tarnished metals can be used intentionally to create a unique aesthetic, showing the passage of time.
  • Some artists embrace tarnished surfaces in metalwork to add character and depth to their creations.
  • Tarnish can alter artwork's appearance, prompting discussions about preservation and the value of aging in art.

Cultural References

  • In literature, tarnished objects are often symbols of lost beauty or neglected heritage, reflecting deeper themes.
  • Tarnished silver is a common motif in tales and fables, representing an inner truth that needs to be restored.
  • The phrase 'tarnished reputation' is used in everyday conversation to describe someone whose good name has been damaged.

Maintaining Shine

  • To prevent tarnish, storing metals in airtight containers or using anti-tarnish cloths is effective.
  • Regular polishing helps maintain the bright, shiny appearance of metals but can wear down their surface over time.
  • Non-toxic home remedies like baking soda and vinegar can clean tarnished metals without harsh chemicals.

Origin of 'tarnish'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'ternir,' meaning 'to make dull or lose brightness.'
  • It is related to the Latin 'ternare,' which means 'to make dull or dim.' This shows how language has evolved over time.
  • The term was first used in English in the 15th century, reflecting the importance of metals in that period.

The word 'tarnish' originated from the late Middle English word 'tarnisshe', which came from the Old French word 'tarnir', meaning 'to hide, conceal'. The sense of 'lose or cause to lose luster' appeared in the late 16th century, while the figurative sense of 'damage or destroy someone's reputation' emerged in the early 17th century.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,785, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.