colorful

adjective

col·​or·​ful ˈkə-lər-fəl 

1

: having striking colors

colorful scenery

2

a

: full of variety or interest

a colorful description

b

of speech : rude, offensive

… he had begun to gamble and use colorful language …

—Yohannes Edemariam

colorfully

ˈkə-lər-f(ə-)lē 

adverb

colorfulness

ˈkə-lər-fəl-nəs 

noun

Synonyms of colorful

• colored
• varied
• rainbow
• vibrant
• various

Examples of colorful in a Sentence

I wore a colorful outfit.

He gave a colorful account of his travels.

Recent Examples on the Web

Slip them on with a matching linen top for an elevated yet easy summer look, then customize the fit with colorful jewelry and a statement sandal. — Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 19 July 2026

Every season offers a different experience, from cool summer escapes and golden fall aspens to snowy winter scenery and colorful spring wildflowers. — Abby Price, Travel + Leisure, 19 July 2026

The Unopiù outdoor furniture is swathed in custom fabrics from Loro Piana, while the seats, designed by Maison Drucker—the oldest artisanal manufacturer of rattan chairs—are embellished with a colorful weave on the seats and backs. — Francesca Longoni, Architectural Digest, 18 July 2026

After frying, each churro is filled and topped with sauces, creams and colorful details like sprinkles. — Sarah Moreno updated July 18, Miami Herald, 18 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

color entry 1 + -ful entry 1

First Known Use

1848, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing colorful

• colorful character

Kids Definition

colorful

adjective

col·​or·​ful ˈkəl-ər-fəl 

1

: having noticeable colors

2

: full of variety or interest

a colorful personality

colorfully

-f(ə-)lē 

adverb

colorfulness

-fəl-nəs 

noun