stain

noun

1. a soiled or discolored appearance

- the wine left a dark stain

Similar word(s): discoloration

Definition categories: attribute, appearance

2. (microscopy) a dye or other coloring material that is used in microscopy to make structures visible

Definition categories: substance, color, colour

3. the state of being covered with unclean things

Similar word(s): dirt, filth, grease, grime, grunge, soil

Definition categories: state, dirtiness, uncleanness

4. a symbol of disgrace or infamy

Similar word(s): brand, mark, stigma

Definition categories: communication, symbol

5. an act that brings discredit to the person who does it

Similar word(s): blot, smear, smirch, spot

Definition categories: act, error, fault, mistake

verb

1. color with a liquid dye or tint

- Stain this table a beautiful walnut color

- people knew how to stain glass a beautiful blue in the middle ages

Definition categories: change, dye

2. produce or leave stains

- Red wine stains the table cloth

Definition categories: change, alter, modify

3. make dirty or spotty, as by exposure to air; also used metaphorically

Similar word(s): defile, maculate, sully, tarnish

Definition categories: contact, blob, blot, fleck, spot

4. color for microscopic study

Definition categories: change, dye