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

For sunnier days, the table can accommodate an umbrella in its center umbrella hole, though if left without any shade, the tile itself won’t discolor or fade. —Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Apr. 2025

However, the heat from the fire can discolor hard surfaces so this may not be the best option to stop weeds. —Lauren David, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Apr. 2025

Be careful not to use harsh chemicals like bleach, as this can damage or discolor the countertops. —Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 7 Mar. 2025

Since there aren’t synthetic colors, the company says the fabric can discolor more easily when exposed to chemicals like benzoyl peroxide. —Lauren Thomann, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Mar. 2025

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