stain (st n)v. stained, stain·ing, stains v.tr.1. To discolor, soil, or spot. 2. To bring into disrepute; taint or tarnish. 3. To color (glass, for example) with a coat of penetrating liquid dye or tint. 4. To treat (specimens for the microscope) with a reagent or dye that makes visible certain structures without affecting others. v.intr. To produce or receive discolorations. n.1. A discolored or soiled spot or smudge. 2. A blemish on one's moral character or reputation. 3. A liquid substance applied especially to wood that penetrates the surface and imparts a rich color. 4. A reagent or dye used for staining microscopic specimens.
[Middle English steinen, partly from Old French desteindre, desteign-, to deprive of color (des-, dis- + teindre, to dye from Latin tingere), and partly from Old Norse steina, to paint.]
stain a·ble adj. stain er n. Synonyms: stain, blot1, brand, stigma, taint These nouns denote a mark of discredit or disgrace, as on one's good name: a stain on his honor; the blot of treason; the brand of cowardice; the stigma of ignominious defeat; the taint of vice. |