Colored
/ˈkʌlərd/
Definitions
2 meaningsPossessing or characterized by color.
/ˈkʌlərd/
Having color; possessing hue.
The colored balloons floated in the air.
💡 Simply: Something that has a color. Like a red apple or a blue sky!
👶 For kids: It means something has a color like red, blue, or green.
More Examples
She chose a colored scarf to match her outfit.
How It's Used
"The artist used colored pencils to create a vibrant landscape."
"She wore a colored dress to the party."
A now-offensive term referring to people of African descent.
/ˈkʌlərd/
(Historically) A term formerly used to refer to people of African descent.
💡 Simply: This word used to describe people with darker skin, but it's now considered very offensive and hurtful. We should use respectful terms like 'Black' or 'African American'.
👶 For kids: This is an old word that hurt people's feelings. We don't use it anymore.
How It's Used
"The term 'colored' was once used in official documents."
From Middle English *colo(u)red, past participle of colouren. The word's usage and connotations have shifted significantly over time, reflecting changing social attitudes.
The word 'colored' had a different meaning and context in historical usage, primarily in reference to racial segregation.
Memory tip
Think of a rainbow – it's full of colored lights!