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Efface vs Tarnish - What's the difference?

efface | tarnish | Related terms |

Efface is a related term of tarnish.


As verbs the difference between efface and tarnish

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

As a noun tarnish is

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

efface

English

Verb

(effac)
  • To erase (as anything impressed or inscribed upon a surface); to render illegible or indiscernible.
    • Do not efface what I've written on the chalkboard.
  • * 1825 , , The Talisman , A.L. Burt Company (1832?), 15:
    • An outline of the same device might be traced on his shield, though many a blow had almost effaced the painting.
  • To cause to disappear as if by rubbing out]] or [[strike out, striking out.
    • Some people like to efface their own memories with alcohol.
  • (reflexive) To make oneself inobtrusive as if due to modesty or diffidence.
    • Many people seem shy, but they really just efface for meekness.
  • (medicine) Of the cervix during pregnancy, to thin and stretch in preparation for labor.
    • Some females efface 75% by the 39th week of pregnancy.

    Derived terms

    * effaceable * effacement * effacer * self-effacing

    See also

    * deface ----

    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.