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

While some people use vinegar to test silver, it isn't recommended for bullion coins because the acid can damage or discolor the surface. — Amy Deyoung, USA Today, 10 Sep. 2026

Copper Cookware The beautiful patina of raw copper cookware can leave a metallic residue that eventually discolors your stovetop’s surface. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 31 Aug. 2026

Precious metals like gold and silver can quickly become discolored by skin care and styling products, and pearls are also extremely sensitive to them. — Larissa Ratschkowski, Glamour, 30 Aug. 2026

The solution works by penetrating deep into the fibers, helping to break down stains on contact, without discoloring the affected area. — ABC News, 17 Aug. 2026

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

Rhymes for discolor

• bicolor
• concolor
• tricolor
• color
• colour
• culler
• duller
• multicolor
• technicolor
• unicolor
• versicolor
• watercolor

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