discolor

verb

dis·​col·​or (ˌ)dis-ˈkə-lər How to pronounce discolor (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Her skin was thin and discolored due to years of topical steroid use to manage her flares. Lynya Floyd, Allure, 23 May 2025 Re-caulk and re-grout Over time, caulking and grout can become discolored or cracked. Ann Hoke, USA Today, 20 May 2025 His left eye, discolored almost to a shade of purple, was practically triple the size of his right eye. Alec Lewis, New York Times, 19 May 2025 Nail psoriasis and onychomycosis (nail fungus) are both conditions that can discolor, thicken, or separate your nails. Brandi Jones, Health, 18 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for discolor

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of discolor was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Discolor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/discolor. Accessed 3 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

discolor

verb
dis·​col·​or (ˈ)dis-ˈkəl-ər How to pronounce discolor (audio)
: to change in color especially for the worse
the stain discolored the rug
discoloration
(ˌ)dis-ˌkəl-ə-ˈrā-shən
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on discolor

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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