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 accidentally bleached my shirt.
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.