Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Damaged or spoiled, especially in appearance: Describing something that has been impaired or made less perfect, often by physical injury, wear, or other harmful actions. The damage is typically visible and detracts from the object's original state or beauty.

Usage and Examples

• Adjective:
  • The once beautiful tabletop was now marred by deep scratches.
  • Her enjoyment of the day was marred by the sudden bad news.
  • The historical document was marred with ink stains.

Advanced Usage

• "to be marred by something": This is the most common construction. It indicates the agent or cause of the spoilage or damage.
  • The election process was marred by allegations of fraud.
  • The landscape was marred by litter and pollution.

Variants and Related Words

• Mar (verb): To impair the appearance of; to disfigure or spoil.
  • A single mistake could mar an otherwise perfect record.
• Marring (noun/gerund): The act or process of damaging or spoiling.
  • The marring of the antique vase was a great loss.

Synonyms

• Blemished: Marked with a flaw or imperfection.
• Disfigured: Spoiled in appearance.
• Defaced: Having the surface damaged or vandalized.
• Spoiled: Diminished in quality or value.
• Scarred: Marked by a lasting sign of damage.

Antonyms

• Pristine: In its original condition; unspoiled.
• Flawless: Without any imperfections or defects.
• Unblemished: Not damaged or marked.

Notes on Meaning

The word "marred" often implies that something was once in a better, more complete, or more perfect condition. The damage or spoilage is frequently superficial or aesthetic but can also refer to abstract qualities like an experience or a reputation being negatively affected. It is a stronger term than simply "marked" and carries a connotation of惋惜 or loss of quality.

Adjective

1. blemished by injury or rough wear
   • the scarred piano bench
   • walls marred by graffiti