Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Khaki Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

👖
Add to dictionary

khaki

[ˈkɑːki ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

color

A light yellowish-brown color.

Examples of usage

  • It's hard to find the perfect khaki pants.
  • The walls were painted in a lovely shade of khaki.
  • She wore a khaki jacket to match the desert surroundings.
Context #2 | Noun

clothing

A strong cotton fabric, typically in a light yellowish-brown color.

Examples of usage

  • He wore a khaki shirt and cargo pants for the hiking trip.
  • The military uniform was made of durable khaki material.
Context #3 | Adjective

informal

Relating to or denoting light yellowish-brown color or clothing made of khaki fabric.

Examples of usage

  • She preferred khaki accessories to match her outfit.
  • The office dress code specified khaki pants as acceptable attire.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Fashion

  • Khaki is a popular color in casual clothing, often seen in pants, shorts, and jackets.
  • The color is versatile and can be paired with various shades, making it a staple in many wardrobes.

Military

  • Initially adopted for military uniforms to provide camouflage, khaki has been integral in various global conflicts.
  • The color symbolizes practicality and durability, being less likely to show dirt and wear during combat.

Culture

  • In many cultures, khaki represents simplicity and earthiness, often associated with outdoor activities and nature.
  • It's commonly used in uniforms for scouts and outdoor adventure groups, promoting a spirit of exploration.

Art and Design

  • Artists often use khaki in their palettes to convey themes of nature, subtlety, and sophistication.
  • The muted tones of khaki can balance vibrant colors in fashion and interior design, promoting harmony.

Origin of 'khaki'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'khaki' comes from the Urdu language, meaning 'dust' or 'earth', which reflects its color.
  • It was popularized in the British army during the 19th century, used for uniforms in India to blend with the landscape.

The word 'khaki' originated from the Urdu and Persian languages, where it means 'dusty' or 'dust-colored'. It was first adopted by the British military in the mid-19th century for their uniforms in India. Khaki became popular due to its practicality and camouflage properties in desert environments. Over time, it transitioned into everyday fashion as a versatile color and fabric choice.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,965, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.