The term "blemish" has a broad range of uses, from its application in discussing physical imperfections, like acne or scratches on a surface, to its more abstract use in describing defects in character or reputation. The word evokes a sense of imperfection, often linked to cultural values surrounding beauty, moral integrity, and personal or professional standing. Whether it’s a minor mark on a wall or a major flaw in a person’s reputation, a blemish represents something that detracts from the whole. In modern usage, "blemish" is frequently used in legal, business, and media contexts, where reputations and public images can be as fragile as the surface of a precious object.
blemish in English
- blemish⇄adj. blemishless.
- blemish⇄blemish, noun, verb.
- blemish⇄noun blemisher.
- blemish⇄noun blemishment.
- blemish⇄noun 1. a physical defect; stain, spot, or scar.
Ex. A bad burn improperly treated may leave a blemish on a person's skin.
2. something that mars completeness or perfection; imperfection; flaw.
Ex. These blemishes of smudged printing h - blemish⇄v.t. 1. to stain, spot, or scar.
(SYN) deface, disfigure.
2. to injure or mar the completeness or perfection of.
Ex. (Figurative.) One bad deed can blemish a good reputation.
(SYN) damage, tarnish, sully.
blemish in Gujarati ગુજરાતી
blemish in Sindhi سنڌي
blemish
Part of Speech
Noun, Verb
Pronunciation
/ˈblɛmɪʃ/
Definitions
- Noun: A small mark or flaw that spoils the appearance of something.
- Verb: To spoil or tarnish the appearance or quality of something.
Usage Examples
- "The vase had a small blemish on its surface."
- "Her reputation was blemished by the scandal."
- "The blemish on his skin was barely noticeable."
Etymology
The word “blemish” comes from Middle English, derived from the Old French word “blomer” (to make dirty), which in turn came from the Late Latin word “blommare,” meaning “to soil.” The word has been used in English since the 14th century to describe marks, defects, or imperfections, either physical or figurative.
Synonyms
- Flaw
- Defect
- Imperfection
- Stain
- Scar
Antonyms
- Perfection
- Flawlessness
- Immaculateness
- Cleanliness
Translations
| Language | Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish | defecto | [deˈfɛkto] |
| French | imperfection | [ɛ̃peʁfɛksjɔ̃] |
| German | Fehler | [ˈfeːlɐ] |
| Chinese (Mandarin) | 缺点 | [quēdiǎn] |
| Hindi | दोष | [doṣ] |
| Arabic | عيب | [ʕaib] |
| Russian | недостаток | [nʲɪdɐˈstatək] |
| Italian | difetto | [diˈfɛtto] |
| Japanese | 欠点 | [kettēn] |
| Portuguese | defeito | [deˈfejtu] |
Regional Pronunciation Variations
- American English: /ˈblɛmɪʃ/
- British English: /ˈblɛmɪʃ/
- Australian English: /ˈblɛmɪʃ/
- Indian English: /ˈblɛmɪʃ/
Historical Usage
The word "blemish" has been used since Middle English to describe physical imperfections or marks that detract from the appearance of an object or person. Over time, its meaning expanded to include any form of defect or imperfection, whether tangible or intangible, such as a blemish on one’s character. The term is now commonly used both in everyday language and in more specialized contexts, such as legal or professional discussions, to describe flaws or defects that can have significant consequences.
Cultural Nuances
The concept of a “blemish” is often associated with cultural standards of beauty and perfection. In some societies, even the smallest physical flaw, such as a skin blemish, can be seen as something to be concealed, often resulting in a social stigma. In other contexts, the term is used metaphorically to describe moral or ethical flaws, such as a “blemish on one’s reputation,” signifying a stain on an otherwise pristine record.