discolor
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /dɪsˈkʌlə/
KK: /dɪsˈkʌlər/
intransitive verb
Definition
To change in color, often becoming faded or stained.
Example
The fabric will discolor if it is exposed to sunlight for too long.
Tense Forms
Past: discolored
Past Participle: discolored
Conversation
Have you noticed how some of my old clothes have started to discolor?
Yeah, I saw that! It's a bummer when that happens.
I guess I should be more careful when washing them.
Definitely! Using cold water can help prevent them from discoloring.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
fade
bleach
dull
Antonyms
brighten
vivid
enhance
transitive verb
Definition
To change or damage the color of something, often making it less bright or different from its original shade.
Example
The sun can discolor the paint on the house over time.
Tense Forms
Past: discolored
Past Participle: discolored
Conversation
Have you noticed how the old curtains have started to discolor?
Yeah, they used to be so vibrant, but now they look dull.
I think it's because of the sunlight streaming in all day.
Root Explanation
Discolor → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "color" (from Latin "color", meaning hue or appearance). The word "discolor" means to take away or change the original hue or appearance of something.
Memory Tip
Think of something that has its original hue or appearance 'taken away' ('dis-') — that's why discolor means to change color.
Visually Confused Words
miscolor
undiscolored
isoflor
dicolon
decolor
bicolor