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.
Keep it chill with a muted use of the classic palette, or go a little more literal with stars and stripes galore. — Afia Asamoah, InStyle, 1 July 2026 To create a cohesive palette, match the undertone of your carpet with your wall color. — Sophie Flaxman, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 July 2026 The design is all about clean lines, natural textures and a cool color palette, blended with Qatari motifs. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 June 2026 For sleep apnea specifically, exercises typically focus on the upper airway, tongue and soft palette — all of which are key for breathing. — Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 30 June 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 7 Jul. 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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