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pale

adjective

/peɪl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of pale

Light or whitish color, lacking intensity or depth.
"Her face turned pale when she heard the shocking news."

Detailed meaning of pale

In this sense, "pale" describes something that is faint, washed-out, or lacking in vibrancy, such as a pale blue sky or a pale complexion. Secondly, "pale" can describe someone's complexion when it appears light or lacking in color due to illness, shock, or fear. It implies a loss of natural color or a pallor, often indicating a temporary state of physical or emotional distress. Thirdly, "pale" can denote a lack of strength, significance, or importance. For example, a pale imitation implies a weak or inferior attempt to replicate or emulate something. Additionally, "pale" can be used figuratively to describe something that is feeble, inadequate, or unimpressive. Lastly, "pale" can function as a verb, meaning to become lighter or less intense, as in "the colors of the sunset paled." Overall, the adjective "pale" encompasses meanings related to color, complexion, weakness, insignificance, and the process of lightening or fading.

Example sentences containing pale

1. She wore a pale pink dress to the party.
2. The pale moonlight illuminated the garden.
3. His face turned pale when he heard the bad news.
4. The painting featured a pale blue sky.
5. The pale flowers added a delicate touch to the arrangement.
6. The walls of the room were painted in a pale shade of yellow.

History and etymology of pale

The adjective 'pale' can be traced back to the Old French word 'pale,' which originally meant 'light in color' or 'whitish.' Old French, in turn, inherited this term from the Latin word 'pallidus,' which also conveyed the idea of paleness or a lack of color. The Latin 'pallidus' was derived from the noun 'pallor,' meaning 'paleness' or 'wan complexion.' Thus, the etymology of 'pale' reflects a historical journey through the Romance languages and Latin, ultimately encapsulating the concept of a light or whitish color, as well as the broader notion of lacking intensity or depth, which is associated with paleness.

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Further usage examples of pale

1. Her complexion appeared pale after being out in the sun for too long.
2. The pale light of dawn slowly filled the room.
3. The pale sand glistened under the sunlight.
4. His voice sounded pale and lacking in emotion.
5. The pale clouds drifted lazily across the sky.
6. She wore a pale lavender lipstick that complemented her skin tone.
7. The pale winter landscape stretched out before us.
8. The painting had a pale, washed-out appearance.
9. His shirt was a pale gray color, almost blending in with the background.
10. The pale green leaves rustled in the breeze.
11. The pale reflection of the mountain was mirrored in the calm lake.
12. The pale glow of the streetlights illuminated the empty streets.
13. Her eyes had a pale, distant look as she recalled the past.
14. The pale mist hovered over the meadow, creating an ethereal atmosphere.