noun
blemish
BLEH-mihsh
Blemish (noun) means a small mark or flaw that spoils an otherwise clean or attractive surface. Example: “A tiny blemish on the paintwork was the only sign of the accident.”
noun
1
A small mark or flaw that spoils an otherwise clean or attractive surface.
"A tiny blemish on the paintwork was the only sign of the accident."
"She covered the blemish on her cheek with concealer."
verb
1
To spoil the appearance or reputation of something.
"The scandal blemished his otherwise spotless career."
How to use blemish
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA small flaw, whether on skin, a surface, or a reputation.
Common pairings
skin blemish
blemish-free
blemish a reputation
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Word forms
- Plural
- blemishes
- Third person singular
- blemishes
- Past tense
- blemished
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
A tiny _____ on the paintwork was the only sign of the accident.
Etymology
From Old French "blesmir," meaning to make pale or bruise, ultimately from a Germanic root meaning "pale."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for blemish
See all rhymes for blemish →Frequently asked questions
What does “blemish” mean?
The word “blemish” means a small mark or flaw that spoils an otherwise clean or attractive surface. In plain terms, a small flaw, whether on skin, a surface, or a reputation.
How do you pronounce “blemish”?
“Blemish” is pronounced BLEH-mihsh (/ˈblɛmɪʃ/ in IPA).
How do you use “blemish” in a sentence?
Here is “blemish” used in a sentence: “A tiny blemish on the paintwork was the only sign of the accident.”
What part of speech is “blemish”?
Depending on how it is used, “blemish” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “blemish” come from?
The word “blemish” comes from Old French. From Old French "blesmir," meaning to make pale or bruise, ultimately from a Germanic root meaning "pale.".
How many meanings does “blemish” have?
“Blemish” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a small mark or flaw that spoils an otherwise clean or attractive surface.
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