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Cerulean Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cerulean

[səˈruː.li.ən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

color

deep blue in color like a clear sky

Synonyms

azure, sapphire, sky-blue.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cerulean

This word is often used in art and design to describe a deep sky blue color. It can be used in poetic or descriptive writing to evoke feelings of serenity and calmness.

  • The cerulean sky stretched endlessly above us.
  • Her dress was a stunning shade of cerulean.
sky-blue

A straightforward term used in everyday conversation to describe a light shade of blue, similar to that of the midday sky. It is simple and commonly understood, making it suitable for general descriptive contexts.

  • He chose a sky-blue shirt for the picnic.
  • The sky-blue walls made the room feel airy and open.
azure

This term is commonly used in literature, poetry, and lyrical writing to describe the blue color of the sky, often implying clarity and purity. It can also be associated with luxury and elegance.

  • They sailed across the azure waters of the Mediterranean.
  • The azure sky was free from any clouds.
sapphire

Known for being a precious gemstone, 'sapphire' is used to describe a deep, rich blue color. It conveys a sense of luxury, richness, and rarity, and is often used in both fashion and high-end product descriptions.

  • She admired the sapphire hue of the ocean at sunset.
  • He gifted her a necklace with a brilliant sapphire pendant.

Examples of usage

  • The cerulean waters of the Caribbean Sea were mesmerizing.
  • She painted her room in a soothing cerulean shade.
Context #2 | Noun

ornithology

a small passerine bird that is mainly blue or azure in color

Synonyms

bluebird, warbler.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cerulean

This word is typically used to describe a deep sky-blue color, often seen in art, fashion, or descriptions of nature. It conveys a sense of tranquility and serenity.

  • The artist used a cerulean hue to capture the tranquility of the ocean in her painting.
  • She wore a cerulean dress that matched the clear summer sky perfectly.
warbler

This word is used to describe a small songbird known for its melodic singing. It is common in ornithology (the study of birds) and when discussing different bird species. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who sings softly or tunefully.

  • The warbler's song filled the forest with melodious notes at dawn.
  • She was a quiet warbler, often singing to herself as she walked through the garden.
bluebird

This term refers to a specific type of small North American bird that has bright blue feathers. It is often used in nature discussions, birdwatching, and occasionally in metaphorical or poetic language to symbolize happiness or good luck.

  • We spotted a bluebird perched on the fence, its bright feathers shining in the sunlight.
  • Seeing a bluebird always brings a smile to my face; it's like a tiny piece of sky come to life.

Examples of usage

  • The cerulean warbler is known for its beautiful plumage.
  • Birdwatchers were excited to spot a rare cerulean in the forest.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Art

  • Often favored by artists, cerulean paint became popular in the 18th century for landscapes and skies.
  • Famous painters like Claude Monet and Pablo Picasso used cerulean to evoke feelings of tranquility and depth in their work.
  • In the world of watercolors, cerulean blue is known for its transparency and vibrant hue, making it a staple for many artists.

Science

  • Cerulean is often used in color theory as a primary color in pigment mixing, crucial for creating various shades.
  • In nature, cerulean can be seen in the feathers of certain birds, such as the cerulean warbler, showcasing this vibrant color in wildlife.
  • The calming effect of cerulean blue on the mind aligns with studies in color psychology, indicating its association with peace and tranquility.

Fashion

  • Cerulean blue has appeared in various fashion collections, often symbolizing sophistication and modernity.
  • It gained significant popularity in the early 2000s, being featured in many runway shows and fashion campaigns.
  • The color was famously highlighted in the film 'The Devil Wears Prada' as a pivotal example of how color influences trends and cultural perceptions.

Pop Culture

  • Cerulean is frequently referenced in music and literature as a symbol of emotion, often associated with melancholy or calmness.
  • In animated films and television shows, characters are often depicted with cerulean hair or clothing to convey a specific personality trait or feeling.
  • The term 'cerulean' has been used in various song lyrics, often to evoke imagery of the sky or ocean's beauty.

Origin of 'cerulean'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Latin word 'caeruleus,' meaning dark blue or blue-green.
  • In English, it was first used to describe a color in the 19th century, making it a relatively modern addition to the language.
  • Links to the word 'ceruleus' highlight its connection to things related to the sky.

The word 'cerulean' comes from the Latin word 'caeruleus', meaning 'sky-blue'. It has been used in English since the 17th century to describe a deep blue color resembling a clear sky. The association with the sky and nature gives the word a sense of calm and beauty. In ornithology, 'cerulean' is used to describe a type of small blue bird, adding a touch of elegance to the name.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,296 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.