Chromatic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🌈
Add to dictionary

chromatic

[krəʊˈmætɪk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

color theory

The term 'chromatic' refers to colors, particularly those that are pure and not muted or desaturated. In color theory, it is often contrasted with 'achromatic,' which describes colors without hue such as black, white, and gray. Chromatic colors are vibrant and vivid; they can be combined in various ways to create harmonious palettes in art and design. The concept is also used in music to describe scales that include notes not part of the standard diatonic scale.

Synonyms

bright, colorful, hued, vivid.

Examples of usage

  • The artist chose a chromatic palette for her latest painting.
  • The chromatic scale in music includes all twelve pitches.
  • She wore a chromatic dress that caught everyone's attention.
  • In the diagram, the chromatic spectrum shows various colors.
  • He studied chromaticity in his photography class.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Art

  • In painting, chromatic refers to how colors mix and relate to each other, influencing a viewer's mood.
  • Artists like Claude Monet explored chromatic contrast to create depth and vibrancy in their works.
  • Color theory, especially chromatic schemes, is crucial in creating a harmonious composition in visual arts.

Music

  • In music, chromatic means using notes that are outside the traditional diatonic scale, adding richness to melodies.
  • Composers like Wagner and Debussy used chromaticism to evoke emotions and create complex soundscapes.
  • The term 'chromatic scale' consists of twelve pitches, each a half step apart, forming the basis for many musical compositions.

Psychology

  • Colors can significantly affect emotions; for example, warm chromatic colors (reds, yellows) often incite feelings of warmth and energy.
  • Cold chromatic colors (blues, greens) tend to evoke calmness and tranquility, which is used in therapeutic settings.
  • Studies show that chromatic preferences can influence perceptions of beauty and design aesthetics.

Technology

  • In digital media, chromatic representations in displays are vital for ensuring accurate color reproduction.
  • Printers use the CMYK color model (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black) for producing full-color images, relying on chromatic principles.
  • Photo editing software often includes chromatic adjustments to manipulate and enhance images effectively.

Origin of 'chromatic'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek word 'chroma,' which means color.
  • It first appeared in English in the mid-19th century, relating specifically to colors in visual art.
  • The term has roots in the scientific study of light and its interaction with colors.

The word 'chromatic' comes from the Greek word 'chrōma', meaning 'color'. It entered the English language in the early 19th century, initially used in the context of color theory and art. The application of the term gradually expanded to musical contexts, where it denotes notes and scales that encompass a broader range than the traditional major or minor keys. This evolution reflects the increasing recognition of the interplay between color and sound, with both being fundamental elements of human perception and creativity. As technology and art have progressed, the meanings and applications of 'chromatic' have continued to develop, making it a versatile term in various fields, including psychology, design, and music.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,351, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.