The word "tarnishes" is spelled with a silent "e" at the end of the word. The IPA phonetic transcription of "tarnishes" is /ˈtɑː.nɪ.ʃɪz/. The first syllable "tar" is pronounced with a long "a" sound, while the second syllable "nish" is pronounced with a short "i" sound like "nɪsh". The "es" ending is pronounced as a "z" sound, and the silent "e" at the end makes no sound. The word "tarnishes" means to become less valuable or less respected over time.
Tarnish is a verb that describes the process of something losing its shine, luster, or brilliance due to a chemical reaction or natural decay. It refers to the formation of a thin layer of corrosion or discoloration on the surface of a material, such as metal or jewelry, usually resulting in a dull or discolored appearance. Tarnishing occurs when the metal reacts with substances in the environment, like oxygen, sulfur, or moisture, causing chemical changes on its surface.
The effects of tarnish can vary depending on the material involved. For instance, silver tarnishes to a dark gray or black color, while copper typically turns green. Tarnishing may also affect other materials like brass, bronze, or aluminum, resulting in a dull or yellowish appearance. It is often considered an undesired effect, as it diminishes the aesthetic appeal of the object or material.
To prevent tarnishing, various measures can be taken, such as applying a protective coating, like lacquer or varnish, or using anti-tarnish products. Regular cleaning and polishing can also help remove existing tarnish and restore the object's shine. However, if the tarnish is deeply ingrained or the material is highly susceptible to corrosion, it may require professional cleaning or restoration.
In a figurative sense, tarnish can also be used to describe the damage done to someone's reputation or image. When someone's character, integrity, or credibility is compromised, their reputation becomes tarnished, and they may be viewed less favorably by others.
The word "tarnishes" is derived from the noun "tarnish", which originated from the Old High German word "zersenzen" meaning "to consume or waste away". This later evolved into the Middle English word "tarnisshen", taking on the meaning of "to lose luster or become dull". Over time, it was further modified to "tarnish". The verb form "tarnishes" is formed by adding the suffix "-es" to the noun.