Definition

To remove the color from something, making it colorless or lighter in shade.

Example

The artist decided to decolorize the painting to give it a more vintage look.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I was thinking about how to decolorize this old shirt I have.

That could be a fun project! What color do you want it to be?

I want to make it a light pastel shade instead of the dark one.

Sounds great! I’d love to help you with the decolorize process.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Decolorize → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "color" (from Latin "color", meaning hue or pigment) and "-ize" (a suffix used to form verbs). The word "decolorize" means to remove color or to make something colorless.

Memory Tip

Think of 'removing' ('de-') 'color' — that's why decolorize means to take away color.

Visually Confused Words