monochrome

1 of 2

noun

mono·​chrome ˈmä-nə-ˌkrōm 

: a painting, drawing, or photograph in a single hue

monochromic

ˌmä-nə-ˈkrō-mik 

adjective

monochromist

ˈmä-nə-ˌkrō-mist 

noun

monochrome

2 of 2

adjective

1

: of, relating to, or made with a single color or hue

2

: involving or producing visual images in a single color or in varying tones of a single color (such as gray)

monochrome film

Synonyms of monochrome

Adjective

• solid
• self
• monochromatic
• neutral
• monochromic

Examples of monochrome in a Sentence

Adjective

an artist who produces monochrome pencil drawings

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

For the occasion, the Elbas opted for sleek attire, with Dhowre Elba wearing a take on suited styling in monochrome. —Julia Teti, Footwear News, 9 Jan. 2026

The relaxed silhouette, minimal accessories, and monochrome palette make the outfit feel polished without trying too hard—a hallmark of Parisian style. —Gena Kaufman, InStyle, 30 Dec. 2025

Adjective

If an all-black ensemble feels too boring, just switch it to another color—but keep it monochrome. —Katherine J Igoe, InStyle, 4 Jan. 2026

The British royal family member went green in a mostly monochrome sartorial statement with warm tones of gold to accentuate her attire. —Julia Teti, Footwear News, 9 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Medieval Latin monochroma, from Latin, feminine of monochromos of one color, from Greek monochrōmos, from mon- + -chrōmos -chrome

First Known Use

Noun

1662, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1839, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for monochrome

• acrosome
• aerodrome
• catacomb
• centrosome
• chromosome
• cytochrome
• hippodrome
• honeycomb
• liposome
• meerschaum
• metronome
• microtome

Kids Definition

monochrome

noun

mono·​chrome

ˈmän-ə-ˌkrōm

: a painting, drawing, or photograph in a single color

monochrome adjective