The word tarnishable is spelled with a silent "r" and is pronounced as /tɑː.nɪ.ʃə.bəl/. The first syllable is pronounced as "tarn" with a long "a" sound and the second syllable is pronounced as "ish" with a short "i" sound. The final syllable is pronounced as "able" with a schwa sound. This word refers to something that is susceptible to becoming stained, discolored or losing its shine. Examples include silver or brass that can easily tarnish if not properly cleaned and maintained.
Tarnishable is an adjective that describes something that is susceptible or prone to tarnishing. Tarnishing refers to the process of becoming dull or discolored due to exposure to air, moisture, or certain chemicals.
When an object is described as tarnishable, it means that it has the property of easily developing a layer of tarnish that alters its appearance or reduces its shine. This characteristic is typically associated with certain metals, such as silver, copper, or brass, which are known to tarnish over time. For example, silverware or jewelry made of sterling silver may be considered tarnishable since prolonged exposure to air or certain substances can cause them to darken or lose their luster.
The level of tarnishability can vary among different materials or alloys. Some metals may be more tarnish-resistant than others, depending on their composition and protective coatings. For instance, stainless steel is often prized for its resistance to tarnishing, making it a popular choice for items such as kitchen appliances or jewelry.
Overall, tarnishable refers to the tendency of an object or material to deteriorate aesthetically due to the process of tarnishing. This term is commonly used in the context of metals, particularly those that require regular maintenance and cleaning to preserve their original appearance.
The word "tarnishable" is derived from the base word "tarnish" with the addition of the suffix "-able".
The word "tarnish" originated from the Old French word "tarnir" which meant "to dull or to lose luster". It was borrowed from the Frankish language where "tornjan" meant "to darken". The Frankish language in turn borrowed this term from the Gothic language where "tumjan" meant "to become dark".
The suffix "-able" is a common English suffix used to form adjectives, indicating the potential or ability of something. In the case of "tarnishable", it means something is capable of being tarnished, or can be affected by tarnishing.