black
Adjective, Noun, and Verb
UK/blæk/US/blæk/
As an adjective, 'black' refers to the darkest color, resulting from the complete absence or absorption of light. As a noun, 'black' can denote the color itself or objects/things characterized by this color (e.g., black clothes), though it is often treated as uncountable. As a verb, 'to black' can mean to make something black in color or to darken something (e.g., ‘to black out the windows’).
Example Sentences
He always wears black because he finds the color sophisticated.
The cat was completely black, making it nearly invisible in the dark alleyway.
They decided to black out the windows so no one could see the surprise decorations from outside.
Artists often mix all their paints to create black when they run out of the standard black pigment.
The power failure caused the entire neighborhood to go black, with only distant headlights cutting through the darkness.
She painted the living room walls a deep black for a dramatic, modern look, shocking her friends who expected a more traditional color choice.
In traditional symbolism, black can represent mourning or evil, while in fashion, it is renowned for its timeless elegance, versatility, and ability to flatter any silhouette.
He carefully blacked out confidential details in the documents before sending them, ensuring that no sensitive information could be leaked or improperly accessed.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
Antonyms
How to Use
A color or quality marked by darkness, depth, and sometimes formal elegance.“Black” primarily functions as an adjective or noun, though it can occasionally serve as a verb in the sense of 'to blacken' or 'to make black.' In everyday usage, you can say, “I bought a black dress,” referring to the deep hue that absorbs all visible light. As a noun, “black” can stand for the color itself, as in “Black is my favorite color.” The word also carries metaphorical or symbolic uses: 'black humor' (dark or morbid wit), 'black market' (illegal trade), and 'blacklist' (an exclusionary register). In fashion, 'little black dress' references a timeless staple known for its sleek, formal vibe. If you want to add drama or contrast in your writing or speech, describing something as 'black as midnight' or 'black as coal' intensifies the sense of darkness.Beyond color, 'black' can highlight cultural or social identity—for instance, referring to 'Black culture' or 'Black history' in discussions of heritage and social issues. In such contexts, 'Black' is capitalized to denote respect for identity and community. Additionally, in technical or environmental contexts, 'black carbon' or 'black hole' represent scientific notions tied to absorption or gravitational intensity. Whether you use it literally, figuratively, or culturally, 'black' can evoke a wide range of emotions and images, from elegance and solemnity to secrecy and rebellion. Balancing context and intent ensures you convey meaning precisely, whether describing attire, mood, or complex societal concepts.
Alternatives
If you need terms that align with the color’s depth or mood, consider 'ebony' or 'jet-black' to emphasize richness and gloss. 'Pitch-dark' evokes a nighttime or enclosed darkness, while 'charcoal' suggests a softer, slightly grayer tone. For figurative language, 'somber' can denote a sense of gravity or melancholy, often associated with black. 'Opaque' underscores an inability to see through something, paralleling black’s light-absorbing quality. Meanwhile, 'noir' introduces a cinematic or genre-inspired element, conjuring images of old detective films or moody aesthetics. If your context is cultural identity or heritage, 'African American' or 'African diaspora' may be more precise in discussions of people and shared experiences. Each alternative carries its own nuances, so match your choice to the tone and intention of your message—whether refined, descriptive, metaphorical, or respectful of social and historical significance.
Writing
When writing about the concept of “black,” clarity and depth can enhance your message. First, determine if you’re referring to the literal color or its symbolic and cultural layers. In descriptive passages, use vivid similes—like 'black as ink'—to create bold imagery. If you’re aiming for a symbolic interpretation, elaborate on the associations of mystery, formality, or sorrow that black often carries. For discussions on racial, cultural, or historical topics, ensure capitalized 'Black' when referencing people or culture, showing respect and clear intent. Provide context so readers understand exactly what the term represents in that instance—whether you’re narrating a scene of darkness, describing a formal dress code, or analyzing cultural identity. Use supportive details, examples, or data to substantiate your points. Careful use of black in your writing adds a layer of richness, highlighting mood and atmosphere. Just be mindful of the tone: too much emphasis on darkness can create a gloomy narrative, while too little might underplay the strength of the image or concept you’re trying to convey. Strike a balance that aligns with your audience and purpose, ensuring that 'black' serves as a precise, evocative term in your prose.
Casual Conversation
In everyday speech, 'black' often pops up when talking about clothes—like a “black T-shirt” or “black jeans.” It can also reference mood (“I’m in a black mood,” meaning feeling down or gloomy) or the literal darkness of night (“It’s pitch-black outside!”). People frequently use it to describe favorite items: “Black coffee is the best,” or “I only drive black cars.” In social or cultural contexts, you might hear references to 'Black music,' 'Black heritage,' or 'Black-owned businesses,' especially in discussions about culture or community initiatives. If you’re chatting casually with friends, “black” can also feature in idioms: “I’m in the black,” meaning you’re financially stable, or “black sheep,” suggesting someone who stands out from the family in a negative or unexpected way. Remember to read the room: some uses can be lighthearted, while others hold serious undertones. By staying aware of cultural sensitivities and context, “black” remains a concise go-to descriptor and a powerful concept for a wide range of daily conversations.
Etymology
The English word “black” comes from the Old English 'blæc,' which evolved from a Proto-Germanic root *blakkaz, generally meaning 'burned' or 'dark.' Tracing even further back, many Indo-European languages share terms that reference brightness or lack thereof, though 'black' took on the sense of complete darkness. Over centuries, its meaning went beyond mere color; in various European contexts, black clothing symbolized mourning or religious devotion. In the modern era, 'black' expanded into idiomatic uses—like 'black market,' referencing illicit trade, or 'blacklist,' denoting exclusion.In technology, 'black box' originally described an opaque device whose internal workings were unknown, now adopted broadly in computer science and engineering contexts. Simultaneously, 'Black' with a capital B gained significance in racial and cultural identities, especially during political and social movements advocating for the rights of Black communities. Across centuries, the word has woven itself into fashion, symbolism, and social discourse, highlighting how a simple label for darkness can accumulate wide-ranging cultural, emotional, and historical resonance.