pixilated

adjective

pix·​i·​lat·​ed ˈpik-sə-ˌlā-təd How to pronounce pixilated (audio)
variants or less commonly pixillated
1
: somewhat mentally unsound
also : bemused
2
: whimsical
pixilated pleasures
pixilation noun

Did you know?

Is it pixelated or pixilated?

Pixelated is used to describe digital images in which individual pixels are discernable, as when you look closely at a large photo and can see the tiny dots that make up the image. Pixilated (coined from pixie, a pixie being a cheerful, mischievous sprite) is usually used to describe things considered whimsical, or people who seem dazed or lost in thought. While pixelated is a late 20th century coinage, pixilated has been in use since the mid-19th century.

Examples of pixilated in a Sentence

a pixilated waitress who couldn't seem to get anything straight
Recent Examples on the Web Offering feedback cultivates a supportive environment that encourages employee growth, reduces misunderstandings, and ultimately boosts productivity—each of which can be even more complex and complicated to achieve through a pixilated screen. William Arruda, Forbes, 7 Mar. 2023 Williams reimagined the print, introduced by the French Maison in 1889, with a pixilated twist for his first collection, appearing on an assortment of lengthy overcoats, matching suits, and one stylish collarless tapestry jacket. Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 21 June 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'pixilated.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

irregular from pixie

First Known Use

1848, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of pixilated was in 1848

Dictionary Entries Near pixilated

Cite this Entry

“Pixilated.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pixilated. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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