tarnishment

Loss of shine

Tarnishment is the process or result of being tarnished—dulled, stained, or diminished.

The word applies literally to metal losing its luster and figuratively to reputation or image suffering damage: The scandal caused lasting tarnishment to the company's brand.

In trademark law, tarnishment is a specific form of dilution where a famous mark is harmed by association with inferior or unsavory products.

reputation

scandal

Disgraceful public affair

defamationFalse statements harming reputation
smearSpread or defame
slanderSpoken false defamation

libel · disgrace · dishonor · discredit · besmirchment · denigration · stigma · shame · infamy · mudslinging

metaphorical

stain

Lasting surface discoloration

blemishVisible flaw or mark
blotMark left by spillage
sullyDamage one's standing

taint · mar · defile · soil · contaminate · impurity · shadow · cloud · smirch · spot

damage

scratching

Raking with nails

abrasionShallow surface wound
marringCausing damage or disfigurement
scuffingSurface abrasion from friction

wear · deterioration · impairment · blemish · defacement · distortion · denting · nicking · degradation

corrosion

oxidation

Losing electrons chemically

rustIron oxide coating
patinaSurface film from aging
verdigrisCopper oxidation's green crust

pitting · dulling · corrode · blackening · discoloration · chemical · copper · silver · brass · bronze

Opposites

surface condition/appearance

tarnishmentpolish

Smooth by rubbing

polishing · luster · shine · brightness · gleam

reputation/honor

tarnishmentglorification

Elevating praise or worship

vindication · enhancement · exaltation · honor · rehabilitation

Family

tarnish, stainless, tarnished, unvarnished, tarnishing, tarnishes, untarnishable

Familiarity: Top 500,000
Profile: Used worldwide · Timeless · Negative · Everyday, not technical · Rated G