palette

noun

pal·​ette ˈpa-lət How to pronounce palette (audio)
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
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.
For most pet parents, design choices meant to accommodate their furry (or feathered, or scaled) friends are relatively simple ones: choosing performance materials that can withstand chewing, clawing and general-purpose romping, and color palettes that camouflage fur. The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 June 2025 Natural light pours in through the windows, highlighting the soft textures and muted palette. Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 June 2025 Its characters face off in playground pastimes, its production design evokes juvenile locations, and its costuming relies on a cheery, bold palette. Shirley Li, The Atlantic, 27 June 2025 The 1986 Cream Soda Suite features a vibrant blue color palette and is decked out with retro decor. Emma Kershaw, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for palette

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of palette was in 1622

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Palette.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/palette. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

palette

noun
pal·​ette ˈpal-ət How to pronounce palette (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on palette

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