discolour: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Technical
Quick answer
What does “discolour” mean?
To change or lose colour, typically becoming faded, stained, or less vivid.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To change or lose colour, typically becoming faded, stained, or less vivid.
To alter the natural appearance of something, often negatively; to mar or blemish the surface.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'discolour' is the standard spelling. In American English, 'discolor' (without the 'u') is preferred.
Connotations
Slightly more technical or formal in both varieties; common in contexts of materials science, conservation, and domestic maintenance.
Frequency
More frequent in written English than in casual speech.
Grammar
How to Use “discolour” in a Sentence
NP ___ (transitive)NP ___ NP (causative)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “discolour” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The damp patch will discolour the ceiling.
- Silk can discolour if washed incorrectly.
American English
- The chlorine discolored her swimsuit.
- Old newspapers tend to discolor over time.
adverb
British English
- Not commonly used as an adverb.
American English
- Not commonly used as an adverb.
adjective
British English
- The discoloured patch on the wall needed repainting.
- They replaced the discoloured guttering.
American English
- The discolored section of the fence was sanded down.
- She avoided drinking tea to prevent discolored teeth.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in property or product liability (e.g., 'The recalled batch may discolour under UV light').
Academic
Used in materials science, art history, dentistry (e.g., 'Factors that discolour dental composites').
Everyday
Describing domestic issues (e.g., 'The curtains have discoloured in the sun').
Technical
Common in conservation, chemistry, and manufacturing specifications.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “discolour”
- Misspelling as 'discolor' in British contexts.
- Using it for intentional colour change (e.g., 'She discoloured her hair' is incorrect).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Discolouration' (UK) / 'Discoloration' (US).
Yes, it is more common in formal, technical, or written contexts. In everyday speech, people often say 'stain,' 'fade,' or 'go yellow/brown.'
No, it almost always describes an unintended, negative change. For intentional change, use 'dye,' 'colour,' or 'tint.'
'Stain' often implies a localised mark from a foreign substance. 'Discolour' can be more general, affecting a larger area through exposure, age, or chemical reaction, not necessarily leaving a distinct mark.
To change or lose colour, typically becoming faded, stained, or less vivid.
Discolour: in British English it is pronounced /dɪsˈkʌlə(r)/, and in American English it is pronounced /dɪsˈkʌlər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None specific to this verb.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: DIS- (negative) + COLOUR. It's the process of colour going 'away' or becoming spoiled.
Conceptual Metaphor
TIME IS A BLEACHING AGENT / DAMAGE IS A STAIN.
Practice
Quiz
Which sentence uses 'discolour' correctly?