pigment

1 of 2

noun

pig·​ment ˈpig-mənt How to pronounce pigment (audio)
1
: a substance that imparts black or white or a color to other materials
especially : a powdered substance that is mixed with a liquid in which it is relatively insoluble and used especially to impart color to coating materials (such as paints) or to inks, plastics, and rubber
2
: a coloring matter in animals and plants especially in a cell or tissue
also : any of various related colorless substances
pigmentary adjective

pigment

2 of 2

verb

pig·​ment ˈpig-ˌment How to pronounce pigment (audio)
-mənt
pigmented; pigmenting; pigments

transitive verb

: to color with or as if with pigment

Examples of pigment in a Sentence

Noun Chlorophyll is a group of green pigments. Melanin is a pigment that gives color to skin and fur. Albinos lack normal skin pigment. Pigments are used to give color to paint, ink, and plastic. Red pigment is mixed into the ink. Verb pigmented varnishes
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Noun
Choose a liquid blush for a pop of flattering pigment. Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 26 Oct. 2024 In addition to providing long-term benefits, the formula instantly revitalizes eyes with a subtle blend of luminous pigments that effortlessly blends into all skin tones. Emily Orofino, Vogue, 23 Oct. 2024
Verb
Number of Shades: 14 Finishes: Matte, metallic, duo chrome Best For: With varying degrees of sparkle and shine—from iridescent gold to highly pigmented, metallic bronze—this kit adds the finishing touch to an ethereal look. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 19 Oct. 2024 The palette features 12 metallics and 12 mattes, all richly pigmented and complimentary of all skin tones. Annie Blackman, Allure, 17 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for pigment 

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English, spice, dye, from Latin pigmentum coloring substance, from pingere to paint — more at paint

First Known Use

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1896, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pigment was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near pigment

Cite this Entry

“Pigment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pigment. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

pigment

noun
pig·​ment
ˈpig-mənt
1
: a substance that gives color to other materials
especially : a powder mixed with a liquid to give color
2
: a natural coloring matter in animals and plants
pigmented
-mənt-əd
-ˌment-
adjective

Medical Definition

pigment

noun
pig·​ment ˈpig-mənt How to pronounce pigment (audio)
: a coloring matter in animals and plants especially in a cell or tissue
also : any of various related colorless substances

More from Merriam-Webster on pigment

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