primary color

noun

Synonyms of primary colornext
: any of a set of colors from which all other colors may be derived

Examples of primary color 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.
Her works were made entirely in primary colors, plus black and gold. Eliza Goodpasture, ARTnews.com, 3 June 2026 On the east side of the highway stood a scattering of temporary shelters in primary colors. Julie Orringer, Travel + Leisure, 9 June 2026 Its primary colors were a thousand different shades. Christopher Hooks, Harpers Magazine, 23 June 2026 Four sizes are offered, ranging from petit robusto to toro gordo, all with a blue foot ribbon, the primary color of the Honduran flag. Richard Carleton Hacker, Robb Report, 19 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for primary color

Word History

First Known Use

1817, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of primary color was in 1817

Cite this Entry

“Primary color.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/primary%20color. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

primary color

noun
: any of a set of colors from which all other colors may be made with the colors for light being red, green, and blue and for pigments or paint being red, yellow, and blue

Medical Definition

primary color

noun
: any of a set of colors (as red, yellow, and blue or red, green, and blue) from which all other colors may be derived

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