Sallow: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to describe a person's skin that has an unhealthy yellow or pale-brown color. Often implies the person may be ill or tired.

• Her face looked sallow after a week of sleepless nights
• His sallow complexion worried his friends

Used to describe skin that is lighter than usual. This can be due to fear, illness, or lack of sunlight. Often softer in tone compared to 'sallow'.

• He turned pale when he heard the bad news
• She has a pale complexion because she rarely goes outdoors

Used more broadly to describe something that has a tint or shade of yellow. Not necessarily negative unless referring to skin tone, which can imply illness.

• The pages of the old book had turned yellowish
• His yellowish skin concerned the doctor

Describes something or someone that looks sick or not well, not limited to skin color. This is a negative term indicating poor health.

• He had an unhealthy look after weeks of junk food
• The plant appeared unhealthy, with drooping leaves

Used to describe a person's complexion that appears unhealthy, often yellowish or brownish, and is related to illness or fatigue. It is typically used in a neutral or slightly negative context.

• Her face looked sallow after weeks of sleepless nights

Indicates a yellow tint on the skin or another surface. It can be used neutrally but often implies a warning sign of ill health when describing skin.

• The doctor noted his skin had a yellowish hue, a possible sign of jaundice

Describes a lack of color in the face, which can be due to various reasons like fear, illness, or stress. It is a more neutral term and can be used in a variety of situations.

• He turned pale when he heard the bad news

Refers to someone who often appears unhealthy or frail. It carries a negative connotation, suggesting frequent illness or poor health.

• The sickly child struggled to keep up with his peers during recess