blacken JUST WRITTEN FOR YOU

/ˈblækən/ · black·en
verb
  1. To cause something to become black in color. He blackened the iron rod by heating it in the forge.
  2. To become black or darken, especially gradually. The sky blackened as the storm clouds rolled in.
  3. To tarnish someone's reputation; to defame or sully. The tabloid tried to blacken the actor's name with false rumors.
Did you know? In 17th‑century Scottish tradition, a 'blackening' is a pre‑wedding prank where friends ‘blacken’ the bride or groom with flour and soot.
Written by Lexi Wordsworth, Dictionary Editor 0 lookups Added Jul 14, 2026