VocabDictionary

pigment

/ˈpɪɡ.mənt/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A substance that gives color to other materials, especially a dry, insoluble powder that is mixed with a liquid to produce paint or ink.

Example Sentences:
  • The artist ground the natural minerals into a fine pigment to create her own oil paints.
  • Melanin is the primary pigment responsible for the color of human skin, hair, and eyes.
2.verb

To color something with or as if with a pigment.

Example Sentences:
  • The specialized cells in the chameleon's skin pigment its surface to match the surrounding environment.
  • The fabric was heavily pigmented to achieve a deep, vibrant shade of indigo.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “pigment”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'pigmentum', meaning 'paint' or 'color', which itself comes from 'pingere', meaning 'to paint'. Historically, it referred to substances used to color other materials, evolving from artistic applications to biological contexts in the 19th century.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'pig' that is 'meant' to be a certain color; the pigment defines the pig's color.

Frequently Asked Questions About “pigment

1. What is the meaning of “pigment” in English?

In English, pigment (noun) is defined as: “A substance that gives color to other materials, especially a dry, insoluble powder that is mixed with a liquid to produce paint or ink.”.

2. How do you use “pigment” in a sentence?

The artist ground the natural minerals into a fine pigment to create her own oil paints.

3. What are English synonyms of “pigment”?

Common synonyms include:dye,colorant,stain,tint,pigmentation

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “pigment”?

Derived from the Latin 'pigmentum', meaning 'paint' or 'color', which itself comes from 'pingere', meaning 'to paint'. Historically, it referred to substances used to color other materials, evolving from artistic applications to biological contexts in the 19th century.