Pied Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🦉
pied
[paɪd ]
Definition
color pattern
The term 'pied' refers to something that is multi-colored or having patches of two or more colors. It is often used to describe animals, particularly birds, that have a distinctive coloration pattern. For example, a 'pied' bird might have a combination of black and white feathers. This word can also be used metaphorically to describe anything that features multiple colors or shades in a pattern.
Synonyms
mottled, multicolored, spotted.
Examples of usage
- The pied wagtail is commonly seen in gardens.
- They admired the pied horse grazing in the field.
- She wore a dress with a pied design.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Nature
- Many species of birds, like the magpie, exhibit striking pied coloring with distinct black and white feathers.
- In the animal kingdom, 'pied' also describes certain dog breeds that have patches of different colors, such as the Harlequin Great Dane.
- Pied patterns are not just limited to animals; some plants also display pied coloration in their flowers or leaves.
Art & Culture
- In art, 'pied' can refer to patchwork quilts or mosaic designs featuring varied colors, evoking a visual complexity.
- Some musical compositions might be described as 'pied' when they combine different themes or motifs in a colorful manner.
- The term often appears in literature when describing characters with unique or contrasting traits, enhancing their complexity.
Psychology
- Colors can influence mood and perception, with 'pied' patterns often associated with vibrancy and energy.
- Studies suggest that people often find variety in color appealing, leading to a more engaged and stimulating experience.
- Complex color patterns, like those described as 'pied', can evoke more emotional responses and deeper connections to art or nature.
Folklore & Mythology
- In some cultures, animals that are pied are thought to bring good luck, especially if they appear in dreams.
- Folk tales often use creatures with distinctive coloring, like pied birds, to symbolize change or transformation in nature.
- The symbolism of 'pied' can extend to representing duality or balance, seen in various mythologies around the world.
Origin of 'pied'
Main points about word origin
- This word comes from the Middle English 'pied', which means 'having two colors', derived from the Old French 'pied' meaning 'foot'.
- Originally, 'pied' referred to marked or blotched patterns, especially on animals.
- The term can also relate to 'pied shag' and 'pied wagtail', showcasing its use in naming various colored animals.
The word 'pied' originates from the Middle English term 'pied,' which is a variant of the Older French 'pied,' meaning 'foot' and is used in various contexts to refer to something that has a two-colored appearance. The roots can be traced back to Latin, with 'pedem' meaning 'foot,' leading to its association with two contrasting colors or patches. In historical usage, 'pied' has often been used to describe animals with patched or speckled appearances, especially in reference to birds where such color patterns are more noticeable. Over time, the word has integrated into English and is commonly used in both literary and conversational contexts to describe vivid and diverse color presentations.