Definition

Having a gray color that is mixed with black, similar to the color of ashes.

Example

The cinereous feathers of the bird made it blend in with the rocky landscape.

Conversation

Have you seen that new painting in the gallery?

Yeah, it's really striking with its cinereous tones.

I thought it was an interesting choice for color.

Definitely, it gives the artwork a unique and moody vibe.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cinereous is derived from "cinis" (meaning ash) in Latin, combined with the suffix "-eous" (meaning having the quality of). The word describes something that has the quality or appearance of ash, typically a grayish color.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ash' ('cinis') to remember that 'cinereous' refers to something that looks like ash, often gray in color.

Visually Confused Words