stained

word · lemma: stain

Definition

If something is stained, it has a visible mark from a liquid or another substance. It can also mean something has changed color, often in a negative way, because it touched something else.

Usage & Nuances

Most often used as an adjective for clothing, surfaces, or teeth (e.g., 'stained shirt', 'stained glass'). Implies something dirty or difficult to clean. Not the same as 'painted' (intentional coloring). Can be literal or figurative.

Example Sentences

My white shirt is stained with coffee.

basic

Her teeth are stained from drinking tea.

basic

The carpet was badly stained after the party.

basic

I tried washing it, but the red wine stained it for good.

natural

The walls were stained with years of smoke.

natural

He looked at his hands, stained black from the ink.

natural