Tinge Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŽจ
Add to dictionary

tinge

[tษชndส’ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

color variation

A tinge is a slight or subtle degree of color, flavor, or characteristic. It can refer to a hint of something that alters the perception of a more dominant quality, often providing a delicate touch to an overall appearance or taste.

Synonyms

hint, nuance, shade, trace.

Examples of usage

  • A tinge of blue in the sunset.
  • Her voice had a tinge of sadness.
  • The soup had a tinge of spice.
Context #2 | Verb

add color

To tinge means to infuse or color slightly with a specific quality. This action implies adding a slight element to something, often to enhance or alter its overall composition.

Synonyms

color, infuse, shade, tint.

Examples of usage

  • She decided to tinge her hair with a hint of pink.
  • The artist tinged the canvas with gentle hues.
  • The news was tinged with excitement.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Many authors use 'tinge' to evoke emotions, suggesting a subtle undercurrent in charactersโ€™ feelings.
  • In poetry, a 'tinge' can be used to create vivid imagery, drawing the reader's attention to specific details.
  • Classic works often describe landscapes with a 'tinge' of color to enhance the visual experience for readers.

Art

  • In art, a 'tinge' of color can dramatically change the mood of a painting, like a soft pastel versus a bold hue.
  • Artists often mix primary colors to find the perfect 'tinge' that expresses emotion or texture.
  • The use of tinges in impressionist painting helps to create depth and movement in the artwork.

Science

  • The concept of 'tinge' can be observed in chemistry where slight impurities can change the appearance of substances.
  • In psychology, a 'tinge' of emotion refers to a faint feeling that can influence a person's overall mood.
  • The 'tinge' of different wavelengths of light can affect how we perceive the world around us.

Pop Culture

  • Music often conveys a 'tinge' of nostalgia or emotion, making listeners feel a connection to memories.
  • Filmmakers use 'tinge' in color grading to influence audience perception and elicit specific emotional responses.
  • Fashion trends often embrace varying 'tinges' of colors that can signify different seasons or moods.

Origin of 'tinge'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'tinge' comes from the Latin word 'tingere,' which means 'to dye' or 'to color.'
  • In the late 14th century, 'tinge' was used to describe a slight coloring or quality added to something.
  • It was originally used in the context of dyes and paints before expanding to emotions and feelings.

The word 'tinge' has its roots in the early 15th century, originating from the Middle English term 'tingen', which itself derives from the Old English 'tengan.' The word was historically used to indicate a slight coloring or tinting of a surface or object. Over time, it became more flexible, extending beyond visual contexts to encompass any subtle addition or influence, such as a tinge of emotion or flavor. This evolution highlights the nuanced nature of perception and experience in language, allowing 'tinge' to convey not just a physical quality but also emotional and sensory subtleties.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,313, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.