Blackener

A 'blackener' is a substance or agent used to darken or make something black. It's a broad term encompassing various materials and processes, from pigments and dyes to treatments that cause charring or carbonization. The term can apply to physical objects, like wood or metal, or abstract concepts like reputation, where negative actions 'blacken' someone's public image. The specific action of a 'blackener' is to reduce the reflectivity of a surface, absorbing more light, thereby giving a darker, often black, appearance. The effect can be permanent, temporary, cosmetic, or functional, depending on the application and the 'blackener' used.

Blackener meaning with examples

• The blacksmith used a hot coal 'blackener' to give the iron gate its signature dark finish, protecting it from rust and adding a rustic aesthetic that would blend well with the stone wall. The intense heat was the main part of the process, but the type of coal and amount made the colour variation different, which made the gate look more unique.
• She applied a specialized shoe polish 'blackener' to her leather boots, restoring their deep ebony color after a long winter. After using the 'blackener', the boots would look great and protected. The leather was now shielded from the elements, maintaining both the original appearance, and the durability of the costly footwear.
• The artist employed a charcoal 'blackener' to create depth and shadows in the drawing, using the soft medium to capture the dramatic contrast that was needed. The charcoal, used a 'blackener' in this sense, enhanced the tonal range of the image, bringing life to the artwork by highlighting form and light.
• During the restoration project, the woodworker used a chemical 'blackener' to stain the oak flooring, perfectly matching it to the darker tones of the antique furniture in the home. After the flooring was stained, the flooring looked just right with the vintage decor that matched the style of the home perfectly.
• The whistleblower’s accusations acted as a reputational 'blackener', forever casting a shadow of doubt over the company's ethical practices. The negative publicity after the accusations would affect the business practices and the perception of the company, and the customers may start avoiding their goods and services, making the blackener be a bad thing for business.