3 entries 1 source
Tarnish
Open directlyWebster's 1828 Dictionary · 1828 1 of 3
Part of speech: noun (n.)
1. The quality or state of being tarnished; stain; soil; blemish.
2. A thin film on the surface of a metal, usually due to a slight alteration of the original color; as, the steel tarnish in columbite.
Webster's 1828 Dictionary · 1828 2 of 3
Part of speech: verb (v.)
To soil, or change the appearance of, especially by an alternation induced by the air, or by dust, or the like; to diminish, dull, or destroy the luster of; to sully; as, to tarnish a metal; to tarnish gilding; to tarnish the purity of color. "Tarnished lace." Fuller. Used also figuratively; as, to tarnish one's honor.
Synonyms: sully; stain; dim.
Webster's 1828 Dictionary · 1828 3 of 3
Part of speech: verb (v.)
To lose luster; to become dull; as, gilding will tarnish in a foul air. Till thy fresh glories, which now shine so bright, Grow stale and tarnish with our daily sight. Dryden.