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Periwinkle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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periwinkle

[ˈpɛrɪˌwɪŋkəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

color

A pale purplish-blue color resembling the periwinkle flower.

Synonyms

lavender, lilac, violet.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
periwinkle

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.
lavender

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.
lilac

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.
violet

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.

Examples of usage

  • The walls were painted in a beautiful periwinkle shade.
  • She wore a periwinkle dress to the party.
Context #2 | Noun

marine

A small edible sea snail with a pointed spiral shell.

Synonyms

littleneck, whelk, whelk.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
periwinkle

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
whelk

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
littleneck

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

Examples of usage

  • The periwinkle is commonly found on rocky shores.
  • Periwinkles are often used as bait for fishing.

Translations

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

Origin of 'periwinkle'

The word 'periwinkle' originated from the Middle English word 'perwinke', which was derived from the Old English 'perwince', ultimately from the Latin 'pervinca'. The periwinkle flower is known for its beautiful pale purplish-blue color, which inspired the naming of the color. The marine snail also known as periwinkle has been a popular food source in some cultures for centuries.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,904 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.