pigment

¹pig·ment

noun \ˈpig-mənt\

Definition of PIGMENT

1

: a substance that imparts black or white or a color to other materials; especially : a powdered substance that is mixed with a liquid in which it is relatively insoluble and used especially to impart color to coating materials (as paints) or to inks, plastics, and rubber

2

: a coloring matter in animals and plants especially in a cell or tissue; also : any of various related colorless substances

— pig·men·tary \-mən-ˌter-ē\ adjective

Examples of PIGMENT

1. Chlorophyll is a group of green pigments.
2. Melanin is a pigment that gives color to skin and fur.
3. Albinos lack normal skin pigment.
4. Pigments are used to give color to paint, ink, and plastic.
5. Red pigment is mixed into the ink.

Origin of PIGMENT

Middle English, spice, dye, from Latin pigmentum coloring substance, from pingere to paint — more at paint

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to PIGMENT

Synonyms: color, colorant, coloring, dye, dyestuff, stain

Related Words: tint, toner; cast, hue, shade, tinge

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