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Corrode vs Tarnish - What's the difference?

corrode | tarnish |

As verbs the difference between corrode and tarnish

is that corrode is while tarnish is to oxidize or discolor due to oxidation.

As an adjective corrode

is corroded.

As a noun tarnish is

oxidation or discoloration, especially of a decorative metal exposed to air.

corrode

English

Verb

  • To eat away by degrees; to wear away or diminish by gradually separating or destroying small particles of, as by action of a strong acid or a caustic alkali.
  • To consume; to wear away; to prey upon; to impair.
  • To have corrosive action; to be subject to corrosion.

    • Synonyms

    * (to eat away by degrees ): canker, gnaw, rust, waste, wear

    tarnish

    English

    Noun

    (-)
  • Oxidation or discoloration, especially of a decorative metal exposed to air.

    • Verb

    (es)
  • To oxidize or discolor due to oxidation.
    • Careful storage of silver will prevent it from tarnishing .
  • To soil, sully, damage or compromise
    • He is afraid that he will tarnish his reputation if he disagrees.
  • (figurative) To lose its lustre or attraction; to become dull.
  • * Dryden
    • Till thy fresh glories, which now shine so bright, / Grow stale and tarnish with our daily sight.