Definition

Adjective: 1. Having sections or patches of different colors: Describes something that is not of a single, uniform color but instead displays multiple distinct colors, often in a patchy, spotted, or variegated pattern. The colors are usually bright or contrasting.

Usage

The adjective "particoloured" is used to describe objects, animals, fabrics, or surfaces that exhibit a multi-colored appearance. It emphasizes a pattern of distinct color sections rather than a blended or gradient effect. - It is typically placed before a noun (attributive use). - It is the British English spelling. The American English spelling is particolored.

Examples

• She wore a particoloured scarf that was a mix of red, blue, and yellow squares.
• The particoloured butterfly landed on the flower, its wings a mosaic of black, orange, and white.
• The quilt was a charming, particoloured patchwork made from old dresses.

Advanced Usage

• In Literature and Description: Often used for vivid visual description to create an image of vibrancy or irregular beauty. >

Variants and Related Words

• Particolored (adj): The American English spelling of "particoloured".
• Multicoloured (adj): Having many colors. (This is a more general synonym; "particoloured" often implies a patchwork or sectioned pattern).
• Variegated (adj): Exhibiting different colors, especially as irregular patches or streaks. Often used for plants or leaves.
• Pied (adj): Having two or more different colors, especially in irregular patches. Commonly used for animals (e.g., birds).
• Piebald (adj): (Especially of a horse) having irregular patches of two colors, typically black and white.
• Motley (adj): Made up of many different elements, often clashing; varied in color. Can have a slightly negative or jumbled connotation.

Synonyms

• Multicolored
• Variegated
• Motley
• Pied
• Piebald
• Patchwork
• Polychromatic

Antonyms

• Monochrome
• Solid-colored
• Uniform
• Plain

Related Idioms and Phrases

• A coat of many colors: An idiom derived from the biblical story of Joseph, used to describe something vividly multicolored. While not containing the word "particoloured," it describes a similar concept. >

Adjective

1. having sections or patches colored differently and usually brightly
   • a jester dressed in motley
   • the painted desert
   • a particolored dress
   • a piebald horse
   • pied daisies