noun

discoloration

dis-kuhl-uh-RAY-shuhn/dɪsˌkʌləˈreɪʃn/

A change from the normal or original color.

An irregular brown patch causes discoloration across the apple's pale flesh.

A freshly cut apple half has an irregular brown oxidized patch across its otherwise pale cream flesh, making the change from its normal color immediately visible.

Etymology

disLatinaway from

+colorLatincolor, hue

+ationEnglishaction or resulting condition

The pieces describe a departure from a natural or proper color. The noun names both the alteration itself and the resulting condition, rather than necessarily a complete loss of color.

In context

NDSUExtension23:33

you might see some discoloration here you can see some browning due to the thrips feeding and this white is also caused from the thrips feeding

2022 Spring Fever Garden Forums: Insect Pests Found in Flower Gardens

More examples

The dentist checks my teeth for signs of discoloration.
Brown discolorations on the ceiling suggest a water leak.
Lemon juice helps prevent discoloration in sliced apples.

Forms

discoloration · discolorations

discolor verb — To change something's normal or original color.

Similar words

stain: A stain is a localized mark, not any color change.
fading: Fading specifically involves color becoming lighter or less vivid.