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

These minimalist interior designers skillfully incorporate clean lines and neutral palettes to devise interiors that are comfortable and highly functional. —Elizabeth Stamp, Architectural Digest, 29 Apr. 2025

The modern Black dandy embraces bespoke tailoring, extravagant accessories, and bold color palettes, but the significance is just as potent. —Ty Gaskins, Vogue, 29 Apr. 2025

That spirit courses through every design choice, from the terracotta, cream, and deep green color palette (a conscious departure from the island's usual muted blues and whites) to the furniture selections, many of which are inspired by the nostalgic Americana of The Sandlot. —Jordi Lippe-McGraw, Forbes.com, 28 Apr. 2025

Rooms here feature chic, minimalist design heavily inspired by Asian and Omani influences with a neutral color palette, interesting textures, and eye-catching light features. —Nicole Brewer, Travel + Leisure, 26 Apr. 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