tarnish
verb (used with object)
to dull the luster of (a metallic surface), especially by oxidation; discolor.
tarnishing
-
present participleof tarnish.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Now, researchers at Tulane University have uncovered an important reason why the precious metal remains so resistant to tarnishing.
From Science Daily ● Jul. 12, 2026
As early as 1859 the New York Times associated Cornelius Vanderbilt with the idea of the medieval robber baron, thus tarnishing the image of the country’s biggest shipowner.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 10, 2026
Subtle localization—without tarnishing the brands’ global image—has been central to recent success, analysts told Barron’s.
From Barron's ● Mar. 7, 2026
Diver Yasmin Harper, who won Team GB's first medal of the 2024 Games, was among the athletes to notice her medal was showing signs of "tarnishing".
From BBC ● Feb. 9, 2026
"It's the cooling vanes. They aren't radiating heat as well as they used to. They're tarnishing."
From "The Martian" by Andy Weir
