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📕 rednote ID(小红书号)：3881567312

Stainless Definition, Usage & Examples (2 meaning)

Meaning 1：rustproof (stainless)

stainless 🔊

/ˈsteɪnləs/

adj.

Describing a material, especially steel, that resists rust and doesn't get marks easily.

Stainless steel kitchen sink close-up showing water-resistant surface

rustproof 🔊

➕

/ˈrʌstpruːf/

adj.

Describes a material, typically a metal alloy like steel, that is highly resistant to corrosion, rust, and staining.

📁 Category：Objects & Materials 🔖 Level：Beginner

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Derived from ‘stain’ + the suffix ‘-less’, meaning 'without stain'.

💡 Mnemonic

Think: STAIN-LESS. A surface that has LESS STAIN. It's clean and spotless.

📖 Example

She bought a set of stainless steel pots because they are easy to clean and won't rust. 🔊 She purchased a collection of rustproof steel cookware due to their easy maintenance and corrosion resistance.

🔗 Collocations

stainless steel appliance – a household device, like a refrigerator or oven, made from rust-resistant steel alloy

stainless steel cutlery – knives, forks, and spoons made from a non-corrosive metal

stainless steel sink – a kitchen or bathroom basin fabricated from durable, easy-to-clean metal

🔄 Synonyms

rustproof (adj.) – Specially treated to prevent the formation of rust.

non-corrosive (adj.) – Not subject to being worn away or chemically damaged, especially by rust.

tarnish-resistant (adj.) – Resistant to losing luster or becoming discolored, often used for metals like silver.

🚫 Antonyms

corrodible (adj.) – Capable of being gradually worn away, especially by chemical action like rusting.

rustable (adj.) – Susceptible to forming rust (a reddish-brown coating).

stainable (adj.) – Capable of being marked or discolored.

🌱 Derivatives

stainlessness (n.) – The quality or state of being stainless; resistance to corrosion or moral blemish.

stainlessly (adv.) – In a stainless manner.

📖 Cultural Story

The modern prominence of 'stainless' is tied to the invention of stainless steel in the early 20th century. English metallurgist Harry Brearley invented a rust-resistant steel alloy in 1913, leading to its widespread use in cutlery, appliances, and architecture, cementing the term's association with durability and cleanliness.

Meaning 2：unblemished (stainless)

stainless 🔊

/ˈsteɪnləs/

adj.

Used to describe a person's perfect reputation or record that has no bad marks.

Stainless reputation portrait symbolizing honest and trustworthy character

unblemished 🔊

➕

/ʌnˈblemɪʃt/

adj.

Used metaphorically to describe a person's character, reputation, or record that is completely free from faults, dishonor, or scandal.

📁 Category：Social Roles 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Example

After decades of public service, the judge retired with a stainless reputation for fairness. 🔊 Following many years in public service, the judge concluded her career with an unblemished reputation for impartiality.

🔗 Collocations

stainless reputation – a public image or standing that is completely free from scandal or criticism

stainless record – a history of conduct, often in a professional or official capacity, with no violations or mistakes

stainless character – moral integrity and honesty that has never been compromised

🔄 Synonyms

impeccable (adj.) – In accordance with the highest standards; faultless.

untainted (adj.) – Not contaminated, spoiled, or affected by something bad.

spotless (adj.) – Absolutely clean or pure; free from moral flaw.

🚫 Antonyms

blemished (adj.) – Spoiled or marred by a flaw or imperfection.

tainted (adj.) – Contaminated or affected by a bad or undesirable quality.

stained (adj.) – Damaged or discredited, especially in reputation.