Colorfast Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐จ
colorfast
[หkสlษrหfรฆst ]
Definition
textiles, durability
Colorfast refers to the resistance of a material, such as fabric, to fading or running of colors when exposed to various environmental conditions like sunlight, washing, and rubbing. It is an important quality for textiles, ensuring that items maintain their vibrant appearance over time. Colorfastness is often tested to ensure that colors remain intact and do not bleed into other fabrics when laundered or exposed to elements. Fabric that is not colorfast may lead to discoloration or staining of other items.
Synonyms
bleed-resistant, fade-resistant.
Examples of usage
- The colorfast fabric held up well after multiple washes.
- She was happy to find a colorfast dye for her art project.
- It's essential to choose colorfast materials for outdoor furniture.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- Colorfastness is a critical property in dyeing fabrics, indicating how well the dye resists fading from washing, light exposure, or rubbing.
- Chemists study colorfastness to develop better dyes and fabrics, ensuring clothing remains vibrant for longer.
Cultural Impact
- In fashion, colorfast materials are highly sought after, influencing consumer choices and clothing trends.
- Artisans and designers often promote their work as colorfast to highlight durability and quality to customers.
Consumer Awareness
- Colorfastness is a term manufacturers use on care labels to assure buyers that the product will maintain its appearance despite washing.
- The quality and treatment of fabrics can vary widely, impacting their colorfastnessโshoppers learn to seek reliable brands.
Environmental Concerns
- Efforts to produce colorfast dyes are becoming important in sustainability, focusing on reducing waste caused by fading textiles.
- Research is ongoing into eco-friendly dyes with excellent colorfast properties, providing greener alternatives without sacrificing quality.
Origin of 'colorfast'
Main points about word origin
- The term combines 'color,' referring to the hue or shade of something, and 'fast,' an Old English word meaning firm or secure.
- The first recorded use of the word 'colorfast' dates back to the 19th century, linked to the textile industry.
The term 'colorfast' originated in the early 20th century, combining the words 'color' and 'fast.' The word 'color' has its roots in the Latin 'color,' meaning hue or appearance, while 'fast' is derived from the Old English 'fวฃst,' meaning securely fixed or stable. The concept of colorfastness became increasingly important with the rise of synthetic dyes and advanced textile manufacturing processes. As consumers began to prioritize durability in clothing and home textiles, manufacturers responded by developing materials that retained their color properties despite repeated washing and exposure to sunlight. Over time, the idea of colorfastness has extended beyond textiles to include various applications in design, art, and manufacturing, reflecting a collective desire for long-lasting color integrity in various products.