chromatic

UK: krəˈmatɪk | US: krəˈmætɪk

Definition

  1. adj. relating to color or colors

  2. adj. (music) involving notes not belonging to the diatonic scale

Structure
chrom <color, from Greek *khrōma*>atic <adjective suffix, from Greek *-atikos*>
Etymology

The word "chromatic" originates from the Greek khrōma (meaning "color") combined with the adjectival suffix -atikos. Initially, it described anything pertaining to color. In music, it evolved to describe scales or notes that introduce "color" (variation) beyond the standard diatonic scale, reflecting a metaphorical extension of the original meaning.

Examples

  1. The artist used a chromatic palette to create a vibrant painting.

  2. Chromatic aberration in lenses can distort colors at the edges of an image.

  3. The musician played a chromatic scale during the jazz improvisation.

  4. Her dress had a chromatic gradient from blue to purple.

  5. The scientist studied the chromatic properties of butterfly wings.