Definition of tarnish

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< tarnation

Tarnów >

tar·nish    (tärnsh) KEY  

VERB:
tar·nished , tar·nish·ing , tar·nish·es
VERB:
tr.

1. To dull the luster of; discolor, especially by exposure to air or dirt.
2. 1. To detract from or spoil; taint: a tragedy that tarnished our hopes.
   2. To cast aspersions on; sully: slander that tarnished the senator's image.

VERB:
intr.

1. To lose luster; become discolored.
2. To diminish or become tainted.

NOUN:

1. The condition of being tarnished.
2. Discoloration of a metal surface caused by corrosion or oxidation.
3. The condition of being sullied or tainted.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English ternisshen, from Old French ternir , terniss-, to dull, from terne, dull, of Germanic origin

OTHER FORMS:
tarnish·a·ble (Adjective)

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