taint
|taint|
B2
/teɪnt/
contamination or stain
Etymology
Etymology Information
'taint' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'teint,' where 'teindre' meant 'to dye or stain.'
Historical Evolution
'teint' transformed into the Middle English word 'teynt,' and eventually became the modern English word 'taint.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to dye or stain,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'contaminate or pollute.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a trace of a bad or undesirable quality or substance.
The scandal left a taint on his reputation.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 1
to contaminate or pollute something.
The water supply was tainted with chemicals.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40