WHITE

Etymology

The word 'white' originates from Old English 'hwīt,' ultimately derived from Proto-Indo-European 'ḱweytos,' meaning 'bright' or 'shining.'

Definition

White is a color characterized by having the hue of new snow or milk. It reflects all or almost all incident light, resulting in a lack of hue.

Historical Context

Throughout history, white has been associated with purity, innocence, and cleanliness in various cultures. It has also been used symbolically in religious contexts and as a color of mourning in some Eastern cultures.

Cultural Significance

White is often used in Western cultures to symbolize weddings, hospitals, and peace. In art, white is used to create contrast and highlight other colors. It can evoke feelings of simplicity, cleanliness, and minimalism.

Related Concepts

White is often contrasted with black, symbolizing light and darkness, good and evil, or life and death. In color theory, white is considered a tint, created by mixing a color with white to lighten it.

See Also

• Black
• Color theory
• Symbolism of colors