colorfast

adjective

col·​or·​fast ˈkə-lər-ˌfast How to pronounce colorfast (audio)
: having color that retains its original hue without fading or running
colorfastness noun

Examples of colorfast in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The item is not colorfast if dye transfers from the garment to the white cloth. Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 July 2024 Most of the research on whether plant dyes can be used in colorfast modern clothing is from Asian universities. Alden Wicker, WIRED, 9 July 2024 Ancient writings suggest this dye was desirable not only for its brilliant hue, but also for its ability to stay colorfast over time. Smithsonian Magazine, Smithsonian Magazine, 5 July 2022 Always use the care instructions as your guide and bleaching wool, silk, mohair, leather, spandex and non-colorfast colors is never recommended. Amanda Garrity, Good Housekeeping, 18 May 2022 Ecocitex’s yarn is also colorfast because it is made with clothes that have already been washed and worn. Andrea Miliani, Vogue, 21 Apr. 2022 Also beware of doing it on non-colorfast items, anything that can’t take hot water, and on fabrics with natural fibers that could be weakened by the process. Washington Post, 27 Sep. 2021

Word History

First Known Use

1951, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of colorfast was in 1951

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Cite this Entry

“Colorfast.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/colorfast. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

colorfast

adjective
col·​or·​fast ˈkəl-ər-ˌfast How to pronounce colorfast (audio)
: having color that does not fade or run
colorfastness noun

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