Discolours

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To cause a change in the color characteristics of an object, which may result in a loss of its original vibrancy or hue distinction
2. To diminish or alter the original hue, causing a surface or object to appear faded or less vivid
3. To undergo a change in pigmentation that results in a duller or different appearance from its initial state

Etymology: "Discolours" is the third-person singular form of "discolour", so its history is that of the verb itself. The verb came into Middle English from Old French, where "discolorer" and "descolorer" were built from the prefix "dis-" and the word "colour". The Latin root "color" lies behind the French, and the prefix "dis-" carries the sense of undoing or reversing, so the literal idea is taking colour away. That prefix is what gives the word its sense. "Dis-" in Latin and French often signals separation, reversal or removal, as in "disjoin" or "disappear". Attached to "colour", it names the act of stripping away or spoiling a surface's hue, which is why the verb naturally describes fading, staining or a change from an original shade.

Synonyms: fades, bleaches

Antonyms: brightens, enhances