Colored

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈkʌləd/

Definitions

• Describing something that has been painted or dyed in a particular color.
• Referring to something that is of a particular color or a combination of colors.
• Used to describe people who belong to a non-white racial group, though this usage is considered outdated and potentially offensive in contemporary language.

Usage Examples

• The artist used a variety of colored pencils to create the intricate drawing.
• Her hair was colored a deep shade of red.
• The term "colored" was historically used in the United States to describe African Americans, but it is now widely regarded as derogatory.

Etymology

The word "colored" is derived from the verb "color," which comes from the Latin word "color," meaning "hue" or "tint." It has been used in English since the 14th century to refer to things that have a particular color or hue, and it later became used in a racial context in the 18th century. The racial usage has largely fallen out of favor due to its association with segregationist and discriminatory language.

Synonyms

• Tinted
• Dyed
• Painted
• Hued

Antonyms

• Colorless
• Neutral
• Uncolored

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, the pronunciation of "colored" is typically /ˈkʌlərd/, with a quick "r" sound.
• In British English, the pronunciation tends to soften the "r," with some speakers using /ˈkʌləd/ instead.
• In some African dialects, "colored" may be pronounced more fluidly with an emphasis on the "o" sound.

Historical Usage

Historically, the term "colored" was used to describe people of African descent in the United States, particularly during the time of segregation. The term was widely used in laws, literature, and in common parlance in the 19th and early 20th centuries. However, it has fallen out of favor due to its association with racial segregation, and it is now considered offensive in many contexts. The phrase "colored people" was replaced by "people of color," a term that is generally accepted today, though it too has its own complex history.

Cultural Nuances

The term "colored" has cultural significance, especially in relation to the history of racial discrimination and civil rights movements. The use of "colored" to refer to non-white individuals was part of institutionalized racism, and its use in contemporary language is often seen as offensive. In the arts, however, "colored" can still be used in reference to objects or materials that have been intentionally dyed or painted, and in some languages, it retains a neutral meaning referring to anything that is not colorless.

More Information

The word "colored" has a complex and controversial history, particularly in the United States. While it was once a neutral term, it has since become problematic due to its association with racist ideologies and segregationist policies. The shift towards terms like "people of color" and "multiracial" reflects a more inclusive and respectful approach to describing individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. Understanding the historical context of this term and its evolution is crucial for anyone interested in the social dynamics surrounding race and identity.