What does multicoloured mean?
Multicoloured is an adjective meaning that something has many different colours at once. It commonly describes clothing, flags, patterns, lights, artwork, or natural objects such as feathers and flowers. The word suggests variety and visual richness rather than merely the presence of a second colour, so it is often more expressive than “coloured.” In British English, “multicoloured” is the standard spelling, although the term is also understood in US English, where “multicolored” is more usual. Figurative uses describe scenes, ideas, or experiences as vivid, varied, or full of contrasting elements. The word combines the prefix multi-, meaning “many,” with colour, making its meaning transparent: a multicoloured object is one whose appearance is made up of numerous hues.
adjectiveHaving many different colours, especially in a bright or varied combination. It may also describe something made up of numerous colourful elements or facets.
- Having or consisting of many different colours.
- Appearing in many varied colours or shades, especially as a decorative or figurative description.
"The market was filled with multicoloured lanterns and painted fabrics."
"Her multicoloured scarf stood out against the grey winter coat."
"The exhibition uses multicoloured light to transform the ordinary room into something dreamlike."
From multi- meaning “many” and colour meaning “hue,” multicoloured describes a visual abundance that turns a single shade into a whole spectrum.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does multicoloured come from?
The word combines the prefix multi-, from Latin multus, “many,” with colour, which comes through Old French from Latin color. Its development reflects the long-established English practice of describing combined colours as many-coloured or multicoloured. The related forms “polychrome” and “polychromy,” from Greek roots meaning “many-coloured,” express a similar idea.
Related word forms
How multicoloured is actually used
The spelling with “ou” is standard in British English; US English generally uses “multicolored.” The word is descriptive and often slightly literary or decorative in tone, but it is also widely used in ordinary descriptions of clothing, patterns, lights, and displays.
Easily confused with multicoloured
“Multicoloured” is the usual British spelling, while “multicolored” is the usual US spelling; both mean having many colours.
“Multicoloured” emphasizes the presence of many colours, whereas “variegated” can also suggest an irregular mixture or diversity of forms or shades.