ternir

to dull or dim

1 / 1

A simple left-to-right transformation shows the same silver goblet losing its brightness: initially polished and reflective, then covered with dull gray-black tarnish.

noun / verb

tarnish

TAR-nish/ˈtɑːrnɪʃ/

Discoloration dulling a metal surface.

Etymology

tarnishOld Frenchto dull or dim

The French verb meant to dull brightness or luster. English applied this especially to metals losing their shine, then extended the image to tainted purity or damaged reputation: something valued loses its former brilliance.

Full entry

Related word entries

tarnish