polychromatic

adjective

poly·​chro·​mat·​ic ˌpä-lē-krō-ˈma-tik 

1

: showing a variety or a change of colors : multicolored

2

: being or relating to radiation that is composed of more than one wavelength

Synonyms

• chromatic
• colored
• colorful
• kaleidoscopic
• motley
• multicolored
• multihued
• polychrome
• prismatic
• rainbow
• varicolored
• varied
• variegated
• various

Examples of polychromatic in a Sentence

a polychromatic tropical bird

Recent Examples on the Web

The iridescence of a scarab beetle’s back — symbolic in many cultures — inspired the Nefertiti model, embroidered with polychromatic crystals, rhinestones and sequins. —Alex Wynne, WWD, 3 Sep. 2019

From natural dyes to native teas, create rainbow flags and polychromatic drinks. —Luann Gibbs, The Enquirer, 10 June 2024

The colorful sculptures are massive and yet almost seem to float, made up of shining polychromatic bands that twist and coil through space. —CBS News, 4 May 2024

The backbone exponent is strikingly different from its polychromatic cousins. —Quanta Magazine, 7 Feb. 2024

Word History

Etymology

poly- + chromatic entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1841, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

polychromatic

adjective

poly·​chro·​mat·​ic ˌpäl-i-krō-ˈmat-ik 

: showing a variety or change of colors : multicolored

Medical Definition

polychromatic

adjective

poly·​chro·​mat·​ic -krō-ˈmat-ik 

1

: showing a variety or a change of colors

2

of a cell or tissue : exhibiting polychromatophilia