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Ecru Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ecru

[หˆeษช.kruห ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

color name

Ecru is a color that is a pale, grayish yellow-beige. It is the color of unbleached linen and is often used in fashion and interior design as a neutral backdrop.

Synonyms

beige, neutral, sand, stone.

Examples of usage

  • She chose an ecru dress for the summer wedding.
  • The walls were painted in ecru to create a warm atmosphere.
  • He preferred ecru as a base color for the living room decor.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Fashion

  • Ecru is a popular choice in fashion for its neutral qualities, often seen in seasonal collections as a calming alternative to stark whites.
  • High-end fashion designers frequently incorporate this color for its elegance and versatility, making it suitable for various attire.
  • In sustainable fashion, ecru is used to highlight organic fabrics that are left unprocessed to maintain their natural appearance.

Design

  • Interior designers favor ecru as it pairs well with other colors, creating a balanced and inviting atmosphere.
  • This color is commonly used in home dรฉcor to provide a warm backdrop that complements both rustic and modern designs.
  • In graphic design, ecru is selected for its subtle warmth, enhancing visuals without overpowering them.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, ecru is associated with purity and simplicity, reflecting a minimalist lifestyle.
  • Artists often use this color to represent natural beauty, emphasizing earthy connections in their works.
  • In weddings, ecru has become a favored color for decorations and dresses because of its soothing qualities.

Origin of 'ecru'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the French term 'รฉcru', meaning 'raw' or 'unbleached'.
  • It has been used in English since the late 19th century to describe a specific hue.
  • The color is often associated with natural materials, emphasizing simplicity and earthiness.

The term 'ecru' is borrowed from the French word for 'unbleached', which itself originates from the Latin 'ecru' meaning raw or unrefined. This color comes from the natural cotton or linen before it is bleached or dyed. It has been used since the early 19th century, particularly in fashion and textiles, as designers sought more neutral tones. The popularity of ecru as a color choice surged in the late 20th century, becoming a staple in minimalist and contemporary design. Its subtlety allows it to complement a wide variety of colors, making it a versatile choice.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,224, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.