Beige Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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beige

[beɪʒ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

color

A pale sandy yellowish-brown color.

Synonyms

cream, ivory, tan.

Examples of usage

  • The living room walls were painted in a soft beige color.
  • She wore a beige dress to the wedding.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Psychologically, beige is often associated with calmness, relaxation, and neutrality, making it popular in interior design.
  • It can evoke feelings of warmth and comfort but may also be perceived as bland or uneventful in some contexts.
  • Colors in the beige spectrum can create a sense of balance, often used in spaces meant for rest and recuperation.

Fashion

  • Beige is a staple color in fashion, often used for accessories, shoes, and basic clothing items for its versatility.
  • In the fashion industry, beige is favored for its ability to pair well with almost any color, providing a neutral base.
  • Many designers incorporate beige into their collections for a timeless look, transcending seasonal trends.

Culture

  • In Western culture, beige symbolizes simplicity and understated elegance, often found in modern minimalist designs.
  • Many brands opt for beige in their logos and packaging to convey sophistication and reliability without being too loud.
  • Beige tones are often used in films and advertising to invoke a sense of nostalgia or vintage flair.

Art

  • Artists often use varying shades of beige to create subtle backgrounds that allow vivid colors to stand out.
  • In certain art movements, particularly impressionism, beige tones help to convey light and shadow effects.
  • Mixing colors can derive a multitude of beiges, showcasing an artist's skill in achieving realism in portraits or landscapes.

Origin of 'beige'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'beige' comes from the French word for the natural color of wool, which hasn't been dyed.
  • The color gained popularity in the English language in the late 19th century, initially describing a textile shade.
  • In the art world, beige defines a color range that includes tones that are soft, light, and understated.

The word 'beige' originated from the French word 'beige', which means 'natural wool that has been neither bleached nor dyed'. It was first used in English in the mid-19th century to describe a light sandy color. Beige has since become a popular color in fashion and interior design, known for its versatility and neutrality.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,536, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.