Sallow Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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sallow
[ˈsæloʊ ]
Definitions
pale complexion
Having a sickly, yellowish complexion, often due to illness or poor health.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sallow |
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.
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| pale |
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'.
|
| yellowish |
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.
|
| unhealthy |
Describes something or someone that looks sick or not well, not limited to skin color. This is a negative term indicating poor health.
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Examples of usage
- She looked sallow and unwell.
- His sallow skin indicated a lack of sunlight exposure.
color
Of a yellowish or sickly color.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sallow |
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.
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| yellowish |
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.
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| pale |
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.
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| sickly |
Refers to someone who often appears unhealthy or frail. It carries a negative connotation, suggesting frequent illness or poor health.
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Examples of usage
- The sallow leaves of the tree indicated a lack of nutrients.
- The walls were painted in a sallow shade.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In literature, 'sallow' is often used to portray characters who are ill or suffering emotional distress.
- Famous works, such as Shakespeare's plays, have utilized 'sallow' to describe a character's deteriorating condition.
- Poets sometimes use the term to evoke imagery of death or decay, enhancing the emotional tone.
Health
- A sallow complexion can indicate underlying health issues such as anemia or liver problems.
- Changes in skin color, including sallow tones, can signal dietary deficiencies, particularly in vitamins like B12.
- Medical professionals often assess a person's complexion to detect dehydration or physical ailments.
Art and Visuals
- Artists may choose sallow tones to depict themes of fragility and suffering in their works.
- In painting, a sallow coloration can add depth and realism to portraits, highlighting a subject's vulnerability.
- Sallow shades are often contrasted with brighter hues to emphasize emotional states in visual storytelling.
Psychology
- The perception of a sallow appearance can affect social interactions, influencing how individuals are treated in social situations.
- Psychologically, people may associate a sallow complexion with sadness or lack of vitality, impacting their mood.
- Research has shown that color perceptions, including sallow tones, can influence emotional responses in different contexts.
Origin of 'sallow'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'sallow' comes from the Old English word 'salwe,' which means 'pale' or 'sickly.'
- It has roots in Proto-Germanic, where it is linked to the idea of being weak or sick.
- The term has been used in English since at least the 14th century, depicting various states of health.
The word 'sallow' originated from the Old English word 'salu' meaning 'dark, dingy, dirty'. Over time, it evolved to refer to a sickly or yellowish complexion. The association with illness or poor health has persisted in its usage.