Dictionary of Color Names

Have you ever came across a dictionary of color names? A color dictionary is where you will find the names of exotic colors like sanguine and mahogany. Quite often you will find that simple words have become renowned as color names. For example mahogany is a wood yet also a color and gold is a metal but a color as well.

A dictionary of color names contains arrays of colors. You will need to use it in the same way that you use a regular dictionary. The only difference is that instead of definitions you get to see the names of hues of the particular color. You might find that words which you never once thought to identify with colors are actually listed in the color dictionary. Gone are the days when the Crayola crayon box was the only source of colors. With the advent of the color dictionary there is no telling what or how many colors there are in the spectrum of colors.

What Is the Dictionary of Color Names?

Simply put, it is a compilation of the various names of colors in the world. You may see colors like cyan, sea breeze or crimson in the color dictionary. You will also see standard colors such as black, white, brown, red, orange, or yellow. You will more than likely find a good color dictionary on the Internet. There are actually quite a few readily available for you to peruse. One of which is available on the iPhone and can be accessed via iTunes on a laptop or PC.

Can I Write My Own Color Name Dictionary?

It probably could prove useful to write such a book. If you were to write a dictionary of color names you would need to consider how you would have it set up. Would you format it visually like a dictionary or would you format it more like an encyclopedia and indicate the origins of the colors and when each came into colloquial use? These are things to think about should you consider writing a color name dictionary.

Why Would I Use a Color Based Dictionary?

If you were decorating or remodeling a home, you might want to consult a dictionary of colors. There may be a particular color that could native to a particular part of the world. For example, a “morrocan red” although a hue, might be considered to be a different than a “cherry red” hue. However both could be considered in the red family. A color dictionary will help you to better understand the differences of hues of colors.

You can consult a color dictionary if you are writing an article or book. Sometimes through writing you will need to convey a message through the texture and color of an item. Here is an example for you to refer to:

“It was her chipped crimson nail that tapped slowly against the ebony chair that revealed her relation to the crime.”

This provides a good example of how the colors can be used through writing.  Conveying texture and color through color can add to the ambiance of the text of what you are writing. It can also bring characters out, and make them come alive.

If you need to find paint swatches then a color dictionary will prove quite beneficial. Instead of just using a generic title for the color, you can cross reference the different hues of the color. Regardless of your situation, a color dictionary can come in handy.

If you need more information on color dictionaries or where to find one you can stop by a local bookstore or local library.