Colourful

Definition

Colourful means full of vivid colors or rich in variety. It can also refer to something lively, interesting, or full of character, especially in describing language or personality.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkʌlərfəl/
• Respelling: KUHL-er-fuhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkʌl.ə.fəl/
• Respelling: KUHL-uh-fuhl

Etymology

The word "colourful" is derived from the word "colour," which originates from the Latin "color," meaning "a covering" or "paint." The suffix "-ful" is added to indicate "full of." The British spelling retains the "u" from French influence, while American English drops the "u" as in "colorful."

Derivatives

• Colourfulness (noun)
• Colourlessly (adverb)
• Colour (noun)
• Colouration (noun)
• Recolour (verb)

Synonyms

• Vibrant
• Vivid
• Brilliant

Antonyms

• Dull
• Monochrome
• None

Usage

The adjective "colourful" is frequently used to describe objects, clothing, art, and environments that are rich in colors. It can also refer to lively personalities or language. For example, "Her colourful dress brightened up the room," or "He is known for his colourful storytelling."

Related Terms

• Hue: A shade or tint of a particular color.
• Palette: A range of colors used in a particular artwork or design.
• Chromatic: Relating to or produced by color.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Full of color or variety: Refers to something that contains many vivid colors or an array of different hues.
  • Example: "The artist used a colourful palette for the painting."
• Lively, interesting, or full of character: Used to describe a person, language, or behavior that is spirited and engaging.
  • Example: "The colourful market was bustling with activity."