Colors Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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colors

[ˈkʌlərz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

visual perception

Colors are the characteristic of an object that we see due to the way it reflects or emits light. They are typically described in terms of hue, saturation, and brightness.

Synonyms

hues, shades, tints.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
colors

General term referring to all variations and categories of color. Appropriate for broad discussions or when not focusing on specifics.

  • She loves bright colors
  • The artist uses a variety of colors in his paintings
hues

Refers to the distinct characteristics of colors. Useful in more detailed discussions of color, such as in art or design.

  • The sunset displayed beautiful hues of pink and orange
  • Different hues can evoke different emotions
shades

Describes different levels of darkness or lightness within the same color. Often used when discussing variations in the depth of color.

  • She prefers darker shades of blue
  • Many shades of green can be found in the forest
tints

Refers to colors that have been lightened by adding white. Often used in design, painting, and makeup to describe lighter color variations.

  • The walls were painted in soft tints of pink
  • Tints can give a room a more airy and spacious feel

Examples of usage

  • The rainbow displays a wide range of colors.
  • She painted her room in bright colors.
  • The artist carefully blended different colors to create a masterpiece.
Context #2 | Noun

variety or diversity

Colors can also refer to the variety or diversity of something. It can be used metaphorically to describe different types or kinds of things.

Synonyms

diversity, range, variety.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
colors

This word is best used when talking about different hues, shades, or tints. It's often used in visual and artistic contexts.

  • The artist used vibrant colors in her latest painting.
  • My favorite thing about autumn is the changing colors of the leaves.

Examples of usage

  • The event was a celebration of the rich colors of cultures around the world.
  • The team displayed a wide range of skills and talents, showcasing their colors.

Translations

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

Origin of 'colors'

The word 'colors' originated from the Latin word 'color' which means appearance, hue, or tint. Throughout history, colors have played a significant role in human culture, art, and communication. Different cultures have associated various meanings and symbolism with different colors, leading to the rich tapestry of color symbolism we have today.


See also: color, colorant, coloration, colored, colorful, colorfulness, coloring, discolor, discoloration, discolored, discoloring, multicolored.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,622, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.