Yellowing: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used to describe the process where something turns yellow, often referring to leaves, paper, or teeth. It's generally neutral in tone.

• The leaves are yellowing in the fall.
• Old photographs in the album are yellowing over time.

Discoloring is used to describe a change in color that generally indicates damage, staining, or aging. It can be used for various objects such as fabric, skin, or walls and has a slightly negative connotation.

• The shirt is discoloring after too many washes.
• Her skin started discoloring due to the medication.

This term refers to something losing its color or becoming less bright over time. It can apply to fabric, photographs, paint, or memories and often suggests deterioration.

• The curtains are fading from too much sunlight.
• My old jeans are fading at the knees.

This term is specifically used to describe plants or flowers losing their vitality, drooping, and often changing color. It generally has a negative connotation.

• The flowers in the vase are wilting without water.
• After a week without rain, the crops started wilting.