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bleach
This term carries a strong association with chemical potency and the aggressive removal of pigment. When used as a noun, it refers to the agent of change, while the verb describes the process of stripping color, whether through intentional chemical application or accidental environmental exposure.
In a natural context, the word evokes images of desiccation and weathering, such as bone or driftwood turning white under a harsh sun. This distinguishes it from simple whitening, as bleaching often implies a loss of original vitality or a stripping away of natural hue.
Meanings
To whiten or remove color from something by treating it with a chemical agent.
She used a strong solution to bleach the stains out of the white shirt.
Examples
I need some bleach.
Do not bleach this.
The bleach is here.
She used bleach on the towels.
The sun bleached the wood.
I accidentally bleached my shirt.
The lab technician used bleach to sterilize the equipment.
The old banners bleached in the sun during the festival.
He tried to bleach his hair for the school play.
The company must ensure that bleach is stored in a secure area.
Ancient scrolls often bleach when exposed to direct light for too long.
I apologize for accidentally bleaching the fabric of your vintage dress.
Phrasal Verbs
bleach out
to remove color completely from a specific area or object
The sun has bleached out the pattern on the old beach towel.