auburn

UK: ˈɔːbən | US: ˈɔːbərn

Definition

  1. adj. of a reddish-brown or golden-brown color, typically used to describe hair

Structure
aub <white, blond>urn <darkening suffix>
Etymology

auburn = aub<white, blond> + urn<darkening suffix>

  • aub (from Old French alborne, meaning "whitish" or "blond," influenced by Latin albus "white")
  • urn (a suffix suggesting a shift toward darkness or dullness, possibly influenced by the word "brown")

Etymology Origin:
Originally derived from Old French alborne (blond, whitish), the word evolved in English to describe a reddish-brown hue, likely due to confusion with the Middle English brun (brown). The shift from "blond" to "reddish-brown" reflects a blending of color associations over time, possibly influenced by the natural darkening of blond hair with age or exposure.

Examples

  1. Her auburn hair shimmered in the sunlight.

  2. The autumn leaves turned a rich auburn.

  3. He painted the door a warm auburn shade.

  4. The fox’s fur was a striking auburn color.

  5. She dyed her hair auburn for the fall season.