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
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.
Noun
The markers have excellent pigment, dual tips (a brush end and a chisel end), and a quickly dissipating smell. WIRED, 29 Nov. 2024 The case features an incredible 12 creamy pigments—six fair to deep-neutral and warm-tone complexion pigments (similar to that of a foundation or concealer), four blushes, and two highlighters to create a full makeup look. Kiana Murden, Vogue, 27 Nov. 2024
Verb
Its soft yet richly pigmented formula stays in place and is safe for sensitive eyes or contact lenses. Madison Yauger, People.com, 29 Nov. 2024 Everything—from cosmetics to skincare—is gentle, lightly pigmented, and free of artificial fragrances. Robyn Merrett, StyleCaster, 29 Nov. 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 15 Dec. 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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