stain

UK: steɪn | US: steɪn

Definition

  1. n. a discolored mark or spot caused by a foreign substance

  2. vt. to leave a discolored mark or spot on something

  3. vt. to damage or tarnish someone's reputation

Structure
st <stand>ain <related to marking>st <stand>ain <related to marking>
Etymology

The word "stain" evolved from Old Norse and Old English roots tied to permanence (like a stone) and later merged with Old French/Latin terms for marking or coloring. Originally associated with physical marks, it expanded metaphorically to reputational blemishes.

Examples

  1. The coffee left a dark stain on the carpet.

  2. She tried to remove the ink stain from her shirt.

  3. His criminal record stained his reputation for years.

  4. The artist used berries to stain the fabric naturally.

  5. Blood stains on the floor revealed the struggle.