Meaning of the word taint in English

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

taint

US /teɪnt/
UK /teɪnt/
"taint" picture

Verb

1.

contaminate or pollute (something)

Example:
The scandal will taint his reputation.
The water supply was tainted by chemicals.
2.

affect with a bad or undesirable quality

Example:
His past mistakes continue to taint his present decisions.
The atmosphere of distrust began to taint their friendship.

Noun

a contaminating mark or substance

Example:
There was a slight taint of bitterness in the coffee.
The scandal left a permanent taint on his political career.