blemish

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blem|ish /bl'emɪʃ/ (blemishes blemishing blemished)
1 [N-COUNT]
A blemish is a small mark on something that spoils its appearance.
Every piece is closely scrutinised, and if there is the slightest blemish on it, it is rejected.
2 [N-COUNT] oft N on n
A blemish on something is a small fault in it.
This is the one blemish on an otherwise resounding success.
= imperfection
3 [VERB] V n
If something blemishes someone's character or reputation, it spoils it or makes it seem less good than it was in the past.
He wasn't about to blemish that pristine record.
= tarnish

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