1. having lost brightness or luster, especially due to oxidation or corrosion
Usage: often used of metals
2. damaged in reputation or honor; sullied
Usage: figurative use

Examples

• The old silver spoons were badly tarnished and needed polishing.
• Her tarnished jewelry had lost its original shine.
• The scandal left his once-sterling reputation tarnished.
• The politician’s tarnished image made reelection unlikely.
• Years of neglect had left the brass doorknob tarnished and green.
• The company’s tarnished brand struggled to regain consumer trust.
• She polished the tarnished mirror until it gleamed again.