palette

noun

pal·​ette ˈpa-lət How to pronounce palette (audio)
1
: a thin oval or rectangular board or tablet that a painter holds and mixes pigments on
2
a
: the set of colors put on the palette
b(1)
: a particular range, quality, or use of color
The designer's palette consisted mostly of earth tones.
(2)
: a comparable range, quality, or use of available elements
a rich palette of tones and timbres
a palette of flavors
a palette of vegetables

Examples of palette in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Illustrations of peacocks, butterflies, and florals turn each acrylic tile into a miniature work of art, while the colorful palette feels perfectly suited for a poolside picnic table. — Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 8 Aug. 2026 As the light dips behind the hills and Chianti’s color palette softens, life beyond the estate starts to feel quite distant. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Aug. 2026 At the marina, where guests can swim, kayak, or paddleboard right from the yacht, saffron and amber accents continue the color palette. — Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026 Danish label Malene Birger focused on flowing silhouettes and a color palette of cream, sand, butter yellow, chocolate brown, and soft earth tones. — Miriam Nehring, Glamour, 7 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for palette

Word History

Etymology

French, from Middle French, diminutive of pale spade, from Latin pala; probably akin to Latin pangere to fix — more at pact

First Known Use

1622, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of palette was in 1622

Phrases Containing palette

Rhymes for palette

See All Rhymes for palette

Browse Nearby Words

pale touch-me-not
palette
palette cup
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Palette.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/palette. Accessed 12 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

palette

noun
pal·​ette ˈpal-ət How to pronounce palette (audio)
1
: a thin usually oval board or tablet with a hole for the thumb at one end used by a painter to lay and mix pigments on
2
: the colors put on the palette

More from Merriam-Webster on palette

Nglish: Translation of palette for Spanish Speakers

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