palette

noun

pal·​ette ˈpa-lət 

1

: a thin oval or rectangular board or tablet that a painter holds and mixes pigments on

2

a

: the set of colors put on the palette

b(1)

: a particular range, quality, or use of color

The designer's palette consisted mostly of earth tones.

(2)

: a comparable range, quality, or use of available elements

a rich palette of tones and timbres

a palette of flavors

a palette of vegetables

Examples of palette in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Choosing a color palette is one of the packing strategies that has changed the game for me. —Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 8 Nov. 2025

The palette—natural stone, warm wood, and polished metal—balances contemporary minimalism with classic refinement. —Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 7 Nov. 2025

Fletcher’s love of warm, easy dressing extends to her color palette, too. —Brittany Talarico, PEOPLE, 7 Nov. 2025

Her movie homes feature neutral color palettes with contrasting pieces and natural materials that add warmth and longevity. —Maggie Gillette, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

French, from Middle French, diminutive of pale spade, from Latin pala; probably akin to Latin pangere to fix — more at pact

First Known Use

1622, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing palette

• palette knife

Rhymes for palette

• alate
• ballot
• fallot
• mallet
• palate
• pallet
• shallot

Kids Definition

palette

noun

pal·​ette ˈpal-ət 

1

: a thin usually oval board or tablet with a hole for the thumb at one end used by a painter to lay and mix pigments on

2

: the colors put on the palette