What Does "Wash a Blackamoor White" Mean?
"Wash a blackamoor white" is an English idiom. It means "an old, offensive phrase indicating an attempt to change the intrinsic nature of something or someone, suggesting it's an impossible task."Examples in Sentences
Here are three examples of the idiom "wash a blackamoor white" used in a sentence:- You can't change his nature; it's like trying to wash a blackamoor white.
- She tried to reform him, but it's like washing a blackamoor white.
- Changing his mind is as difficult as washing a blackamoor white.
What Is an Idiom?
An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Wash a Blackamoor White" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.
A Quick Test
You now know what "wash a blackamoor white" means, but are you good at English idioms? Let's see!
- This test has questions.
- A correct answer is worth 5 points.
- You can get up to 5 bonus points for a speedy answer.
- Some questions demand more than one answer. You must get every part right.
- Beware! Wrong answers score 0 points.
- 🏆 If you beat one of the top 10 scores, you will be invited to apply for the Hall of Fame.
Scoring System
Cyber Guru (+)
Cyber Hero (+)
Cyber Captain (+)
Cyber Sergeant (+)
Cyber Recruit (+)
Cyber Guru (+)
Cyber Hero (+)
Cyber Captain (+)
Cyber Sergeant (+)
Cyber Recruit (+)
- Do you disagree with something on this page?
- Did you spot a typo?
