English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word stain in English

What does stain mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

stain

US /steɪn/
UK /steɪn/
"stain" picture

Noun

1.

a colored patch or dirty mark that is difficult to remove

Example:
•
There's a coffee stain on my shirt.
•
She tried to remove the ink stain from the carpet.
Synonym:
mark spot smudge blot blemish
2.

a dye or chemical used to color wood, fabric, or other materials

Example:
•
We used a dark wood stain to finish the table.
•
The artist applied a light stain to the canvas.
Synonym:
dye tint pigment colorant

Verb

1.

to mark (something) with a stain that is difficult to remove

Example:
•
Be careful not to stain the new tablecloth.
•
The spilled wine will stain the carpet if not cleaned quickly.
Synonym:
mark soil dirty discolor blemish
2.

to color (wood, fabric, or other materials) with a stain

Example:
•
He decided to stain the deck a darker color.
•
The furniture was carefully stained to match the existing decor.
Synonym:
dye tint color pigment
3.

to damage the good reputation of (someone or something)

Example:
•
The scandal will stain his political career.
•
His reputation was stained by the accusations.
Synonym:
blemish tarnish sully disgrace dishonor
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Related Word:
stained stained glass port wine stain