discolor

Discolor, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Discolored; p. pr. & vb. n. Discoloring.]

Etymology: [OE. descolouren, OF. descolorer, F. décolorer, fr. L. dis- + cololare, coloratum, to color, color color. See Color.]

[Written also discolour.]

1. To alter the natural hue or color of; to change to a different color; to stain; to tinge; as, a drop of wine will discolor water; silver is discolored by sea water.

2. To alter the true complexion or appearance of; to put a false hue upon. To discolor all your ideas. Wat

Shades of meaning

Fernald has no entry of its own for discolor; he lists it under stain.

Where he writes about it:

To stain is primarily to discolor, to impart a color undesired and perhaps unintended, and which may or may not be permanent. — from stain

Synonyms

stain blot color disgrace dishonor dye soil spot sully tarnish tinge tint

Antonyms

none given

etymology Webster’s online