Dictionary entry

Taint (3)

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Taint, v. t. 1. To injure, as a lance, without breaking it; also, to break, as a lance, but usually in an unknightly or unscientific manner.

Do not fear; I have

A staff to taint, and bravely. Massinger.

2. To hit or touch lightly, in tilting.

They tainted each other on the helms and passed by. Ld. Berners.