Meaning & Definition
verb
past tense of soil; to make something dirty or unclean.
He soiled his shirt while cooking dinner.
to stain or tarnish; to damage purity or integrity.
The scandal soiled the politician's image permanently.
adjective
made dirty or unclean, especially by soiling with substances such as dirt or stains.
The soiled carpet had to be professionally cleaned after the party.
tainted or dishonored, particularly in terms of reputation or ethics.
His soiled reputation made it difficult for him to find work in the industry.
Etymology
Middle English, from soil (noun), meaning dirt or ground.
Common Phrases and Expressions
soiled reputation:
A reputation that has been damaged or marred.
Slang Meanings
To mess up or ruin something.
He really soiled that opportunity by showing up late.