purple

UK: ˈpɜː.pəl | US: ˈpɝː.pəl

Definition

  1. n. a color intermediate between red and blue

  2. adj. of a color intermediate between red and blue

  3. vt. to make or become purple in color

Structure
purp <purple dye (from Latin "purpura")>le <diminutive or adjectival suffix>
Etymology

The word "purple" traces back to the Latin purpura, referring to a precious Tyrian purple dye derived from mollusks, symbolizing royalty in antiquity. The Old English purpul adapted the Latin term, later evolving into "purple" with the adjectival suffix -le. The dye's rarity and regal associations cemented the word's link to luxury and status.

Examples

  1. She wore a stunning purple dress to the gala.

  2. The sunset painted the sky in shades of purple and pink.

  3. Ancient Phoenicians traded purple dye at high prices.

  4. His face turned purple with anger.

  5. The artist mixed red and blue to create the perfect purple.