stain meaning and definition

STAIN noun

Definition of stain (noun)

1. a soiled or discolored appearance
   • "the wine left a dark stain"
   • synonyms: discoloration, discolouration
2. (microscopy) a dye or other coloring material that is used in microscopy to make structures visible
3. the state of being covered with unclean things
   • synonyms: dirt, filth, grease, grime, grunge, soil
4. a symbol of disgrace or infamy
   • "And the Lord set a mark upon Cain"--Genesis
   • synonyms: brand, mark, stigma
5. an act that brings discredit to the person who does it
   • "he made a huge blot on his copybook"
   • synonyms: blot, smear, smirch, spot

STAIN verb

Definition of stain (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"
2. produce or leave stains
   • "Red wine stains the table cloth"
3. make dirty or spotty, as by exposure to air; also used metaphorically
   • "The silver was tarnished by the long exposure to the air"; "Her reputation was sullied after the affair with a married man"
   • synonyms: defile, maculate, sully, tarnish
4. color for microscopic study
   • "The laboratory worker dyed the specimen"