Periwinkle: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually refers to a pale blue or blue-purple color, like the flower of the same name. Used for describing soft and delicate shades.

• She chose a periwinkle dress for the summer wedding.
• The room was painted in a subtle periwinkle hue.

Describes a soft purple color, often associated with the lavender plant. Commonly used to describe soothing colors or fragrances.

• The lavender fields in Provence are breathtaking.
• She prefers lavender-scented candles to help her relax.

Refers to a light purple color, similar to the flowers of a lilac bush. Often used to describe gentle and romantic shades.

• Her room is decorated in calming lilac tones.
• The bride carried a bouquet of lilac flowers.

Describes a deeper and more vibrant shade of purple. It's a strong, rich color often used to grab attention.

• She painted her nails a bright shade of violet.
• The artist used violet to add depth to the sunset in the painting.

This word has two common uses. It can refer to a type of small sea snail often found along rocky shorelines, or it can describe a pastel blue color.

• The periwinkles clung to the rocks in the tide pool
• Her dress was a lovely shade of periwinkle

It describes a larger type of sea snail that is often found in colder waters and can be used in culinary dishes, but it often has a more rugged and less refined connotation compared to 'littleneck'.

• The fisherman caught a load of whelks that he planned to sell at the market
• Whelk is considered a delicacy in some cultures and is often served as a street food

This term specifically refers to a type of small clam that is commonly found in coastal waters and is often used in cooking, especially in seafood dishes.

• The chef prepared a delicious spaghetti dish with littlenecks and white wine sauce
• We collected some littleneck clams during our trip to the beach