Tarnish

usgb/ˈtɑːrnɪʃ/
verb

To make less good or impressive.

His lie tarnished his reputation among his friends.
Visual representation of "tarnish" - To make less good or impressive

Often appears as...

  • tarnish reputation
  • tarnish image
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "tarnish"
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Figurative Use

Used metaphorically to describe harm done to intangible things, like reputations.

Illustration for Figurative Use
A single scandal may tarnish a politician's entire career.
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Negative Connotation

Has a negative feel, implying harm or reduced quality that could have been avoided.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
He did nothing wrong, but gossip tarnished his social standing.
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Irreversible Change

Often suggests a permanent or hard-to-reverse effect.

Illustration for Irreversible Change
The once-beloved hero's actions tarnished his legacy forever.
Visual representation of the word "Tarnish"

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