Definition

A thing that causes a stain or blemish.

Example

The spilled ink was a sully on the beautiful tablecloth.

Conversation

I found an old painting in the attic, but it has a sully on it.

Oh no, that sounds terrible! Can it be cleaned?

I hope so, but I'm worried the sully might be permanent.

Maybe you should take it to a professional; they might know what to do.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To make something dirty or less pure, often by damaging its quality or reputation.

Example

The scandal could sully the politician's reputation.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I can't believe he would sully his reputation like that over a silly mistake.

Yeah, it's surprising how one action can change people's opinions so quickly.

I just hope it doesn't sully our friendship as well.

Root Explanation

Sully → It originates from Old French *sullier*, meaning to soil or tarnish. The word 'sully' means to make something dirty or to tarnish its purity.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old French word for soiling something — that's why sully means to make something dirty or tarnished.

Visually Confused Words