Vermillion Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🟥
vermillion
[vərˈmɪljən ]
Definitions
color shade
Vermilion is a vivid red to reddish-orange color. It is traditionally made from the pigment cinnabar, which is a mercury sulfide mineral. Vermilion has been used in art, cosmetics, and decorations for centuries and is known for its bright and striking appearance. The color is often associated with vitality, passion, and energy, making it a popular choice for a variety of artistic expressions.
Synonyms
carmine, crimson, red, ruby, scarlet.
Examples of usage
- The artist chose vermilion for the sunset in his painting.
- She painted her living room walls in a beautiful shade of vermilion.
- The traditional Chinese wedding dress is often vermilion.
pigment material
Vermilion as a pigment is known for its strong opacity and bright hue. It has been used by artists since ancient times, often favored for its durability and vibrant colors. While the natural form is derived from cinnabar, synthetic forms have also been developed to provide a safer alternative. The pigment has applications in painting, inks, and cosmetics.
Synonyms
pigment red, red ochre, vermilion pigment.
Examples of usage
- The ancient Egyptians used vermilion in their artwork.
- Artists value vermilion for its rich color and coverage.
- Vermilion pigment was a popular choice in oil painting.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Art History
- Artists like Titian and van Gogh used this vibrant hue to create depth and heat in their paintings.
- Vermillion has been a popular pigment since ancient times and was prized for its rich, warm tones.
Cultural Significance
- In some cultures, vermillion is associated with good fortune and is used in celebrations and rituals.
- In India, this color is often used in the wedding ceremonies, symbolizing prosperity and marital bliss.
Science
- Vermillion is a real-world pigment composed mainly of mercuric sulfide, which can be toxic if ingested.
- Its synthetic version, known as 'Chinese red', is safer and widely used in modern art supplies.
Literature
- The term has been used metaphorically in literature to represent passion, intensity, and emotions.
- In poetry, vermillion often evokes imagery of vibrant sunsets and the beauty of love.
Origin of 'vermillion'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'vermiculus', meaning 'little worm', because it was originally made from crushed insects.
- In medieval times, the word was used to refer to a deep red paint made from ground mineral sources as well.
The word 'vermillion' traces its origins to the Latin word 'vermiculus', which means 'little worm'. This is because the pigment was originally derived from the bright red dye created from the crushed bodies of the kermes insect, known for the vibrant color it produced. This dye was highly valued in ancient cultures, particularly in the Mediteranean civilizations. Over time, the use of minerals, particularly cinnabar, became prevalent for creating this color. The term 'vermillion' entered Middle English through the Old French 'vermilion', which referred to the color as well as the pigment itself. Historically, vermilion has held significance in various cultures, from being used in royal attire to religious icons, and has been a staple in an artist's palette for centuries.