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

Volunteers helped run activities throughout the afternoon, from colorful craft stations to gingerbread decorating and dancing with the DJ. —Zachary Bynum, CBS News, 7 Dec. 2025

Excavations have revealed the buildings and artifacts hidden beneath the ash, colorful remains of decorative frescoes, and haunting remains of the city’s residents. —Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 7 Dec. 2025

This is a sweet story collection, filled with colorful sketches by the author, aimed at the little ones who still need someone to read to them. —Mary Ann Grossmann, Twin Cities, 7 Dec. 2025

From colorful floral designs to solid colors, this Sy Compact Travel Umbrella is available in a ton of options, and most are on sale. —Jasmine Gomez, Travel + Leisure, 7 Dec. 2025

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