Bloodstained

/ˈblʌdˌsteɪnd/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
Marked or colored with the blood of a living being.
The detective found a bloodstained knife at the crime scene.
Having a figurative association with violence or death; tainted by bloodshed.
The history of the land was bloodstained, riddled with past conflicts and wars.
Soiled or stained with blood; marked as a result of injury or violence.
She wore a bloodstained shirt, a reminder of the struggle she had just endured.

Etymology

From the combination of 'blood' and 'stained', referring to something that bears marks of blood.

Common Phrases and Expressions

bloodstained hands
To have committed wrongful acts, especially murder.
bloodstained past
A history characterized by violence or wrongdoing.

Related Words

blood
A red liquid that circulates in the arteries and veins of humans and other vertebrates.
stain
A mark or discoloration that spoils the appearance of something.

Slang Meanings

To have a reputation for violence.
After the fight, he was known as a bloodstained thug.
To be deeply involved in scandal or crime.
Her bloodstained dealings caught up with her.