1. to make or become black or dark in color
2. to damage someone’s reputation or character

Examples

• The fire blackens the walls of the old building.
• Smoke from the candle blackens the ceiling above.
• The scandal blackens his reputation in the community.
• She refuses to let gossip blacken her good name.
• The metal blackens when exposed to high heat.
• His face blackens with anger at the accusation.
• The storm clouds blacken the afternoon sky.