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

Pro tip: Pat skin dry with a white towel after rinsing, as benzoyl peroxide can discolor fabric. —Deanna Pai, Allure, 13 Dec. 2024

Keep in Mind The silicone heads can discolor over time. —Tabitha Britt, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Aug. 2024

Types Laser and light therapies work to heat small areas of skin, causing veins and vessels to collapse and disappear and managing discolored or thickened areas.4 Dermatologists have an array of laser and light therapy technologies to choose from. —Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 2 Dec. 2024

Ideally, look at every single leaf for signs of insects including the pests themselves, a sticky substance known as honeydew that’s producing by piercing insects, or stippled or discolored leaves, which could indicate the presence of pests such as spider mites, says Hancock. —Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 30 Nov. 2024

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

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