discolor

verb

dis·​col·​or (ˌ)dis-ˈkə-lər 

discolored; discoloring; discolors

transitive verb

: to alter or change the hue or color of

intransitive verb

: to change color especially for the worse

Examples of discolor in a Sentence

The fabric is guaranteed not to discolor.

The wine stain discolored the rug.

Recent Examples on the Web

Salt stains aren't limited to hard floors: Carpet can also become discolored due to salt, and is one of the most difficult flooring types to clean afterward. —Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Oct. 2024

The adhesive used to repair the vase was brown and discolored. —Dennis Kight, Forbes, 25 Sep. 2024

Chrome fixtures and finishes can quickly become discolored or scratched, so avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners, solvents, or steel wool. —Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Oct. 2024

These can show various types of skin disorders, including erythematous (red or discolored) and edematous (swelling) reactions, persisting for weeks or months. —Nancy Lebrun, Verywell Health, 7 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English discolouren, from Anglo-French desculurer, from Late Latin discolorari, from Latin discolor of another color, from dis- + color color

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Kids Definition

discolor

verb

dis·​col·​or (ˈ)dis-ˈkəl-ər 

: to change in color especially for the worse

the stain discolored the rug

discoloration

(ˌ)dis-ˌkəl-ə-ˈrā-shən

noun