Definition

Noun: A deep, vivid shade of blue with a slight purple or reddish undertone. It is a rich, saturated color often associated with tradition, nobility, and formality.

Usage and Examples

• As a color name:

  • She wore a stunning dress in royal blue.
  • The team's new uniforms are royal blue and gold.

• Describing objects:

  • We painted the accent wall a bold royal blue.
  • The logo uses royal blue to convey trust and authority.

Advanced Usage

• "Royal blue" as an adjective phrase: While primarily a noun, it can function attributively to describe other nouns.
  • He chose a royal blue tie for the interview.
  • The package was tied with a royal blue ribbon.

Variants and Related Words

• Royal (adj): Of or relating to a king or queen. While related in connotation, this is a separate word.
• Azure (n): A bright blue color, like a clear sky. This is a synonym but typically lacks the purple undertone of royal blue.
• Navy blue (n): A very dark shade of blue, often darker and less vivid than royal blue.

Synonyms

• Sapphire: A deep, precious gemstone blue.
• Cobalt blue: A strong, bright blue, sometimes similar but often more pure blue than royal blue.

Notes on Meaning

This term specifically refers to the color itself. It does not describe the quality of being both royal and blue separately (e.g., a "royal, blue flag" would be a flag that is blue and belongs to royalty, which is different from a "royal blue flag," which is a flag colored royal blue).

Noun

1. a shade of blue tinged with purple