What does tarnished mean?
Tarnished describes something that has lost its brightness, polish, or distinction. In its literal sense, it refers to metal whose surface has become dull or discoloured, often because of oxidation or prolonged exposure. In figurative use, a tarnished reputation or image has been damaged by dishonest conduct, scandal, negligence, or repeated failure. The word can function as an adjective or as a past-tense and past-participle verb: time may tarnish a once-brilliant silver surface, while a controversy may tarnish a public figure’s reputation. The metaphor is especially effective because, like a darkened metal surface, a damaged reputation can be difficult to restore to its original condition. Although “tarnished” is not limited to formal writing, it has a somewhat elevated tone and is more evocative than the plainer word “damaged.” It is especially useful when suggesting that something once had a good or impressive quality.
Having become dull or discoloured, especially on a metal surface; figuratively, having suffered damage to one’s reputation, credibility, or good name.
"He polished the tarnished silver until it gleamed again."
The figurative adjective is commonly used before nouns such as reputation, image, name, record, and honour.
The past tense and past participle of tarnish, meaning to dull or discolour metal or, figuratively, to damage a reputation or diminish something’s lustre or credibility.
"Neglect had tarnished the reputation of the once-esteemed club."
This form normally takes a direct object when used as a finite verb and may also function as a participle in a passive or perfect construction.
The word for a silver spoon losing its shine also describes a reputation losing its credibility.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does tarnished come from?
Tarnished is the past tense and past participle of tarnish, a word that entered English from Old French ternir, meaning to dim, darken, or dull. The metallic sense is the older one, referring to the loss of shine on metal. The figurative sense developed by extending that image to reputations, honours, and other qualities that have lost their brightness or credibility.
Related word forms
How tarnished is actually used
Tarnished is most commonly used as an adjective or as the past participle of tarnish. Its figurative use is strongly negative and commonly describes a reputation, image, record, or honour. The metallic sense is generally understood in both British and American English.
Easily confused with tarnished
Tarnished primarily suggests a surface has dulled or discoloured or that an image has lost its lustre, whereas tainted usually suggests contamination, compromise, or moral corruption.