Discolor

Discolor is a verb meaning to lose or change the original color of something, or to cause such a change. In American English the spelling is discolor, while discolour is common in British English. The related noun discoloration (or discolouration) denotes the condition of having changed color. The term can apply to natural materials such as textiles, metals, plastics, stone, and plant tissues, as well as to living organisms and biological tissues.

Causes include chemical reactions such as oxidation, reduction, or staining by dyes or pigments; exposure to light, heat, moisture, or air; microbial growth; or physical abrasion. In textiles and materials, discoloration may result from sun exposure (photodegradation), laundering with incompatible agents, or contact with other substances. In foods and beverages, discoloration can indicate spoilage or enzymatic reactions.

In medicine, skin or mucous membrane discoloration refers to changes in color that may signal health conditions, such as pallor, cyanosis (bluish), jaundice (yellow), or hyperpigmentation. Evaluation typically involves history, examination, and sometimes laboratory testing to identify underlying causes.

Prevention and treatment depend on the context. Stains on fabrics may be treated with specialized cleaners or bleaching agents; metals may require polishing or protective coatings; discoloration in foods is managed by proper storage and processing. In medical contexts, treatment targets the underlying condition rather than the discoloration itself.