Taint
WordNet
noun
(1) The state of being contaminated
verb
(2) Contaminate with a disease or microorganism
(3) Place under suspicion or cast doubt upon
"Sully someone's reputation"
WiktionaryText
Etymology 1
From . Compare with .
Noun
- A thrust with a lance, which fails of its intended effect.
- An injury done to a lance in an encounter, without its being broken; also, a breaking of a lance in an encounter in a dishonorable or unscientific manner.
Etymology 2
From , via (past participle of )
Noun
- A contamination, decay or putrefaction, especially in food
- A mark of disgrace, especially on one's character
Verb
- To contaminate or corrupt (something) with an external agent, either physically or morally.
- To spoil (food) by contamination.