Definition

Having a light color or low intensity, often appearing weak or faint.

Example

The sky was pale blue in the early morning light.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Did you notice how pale the sky looks today?

Yeah, it's definitely not as bright as usual.

I wonder if it’s going to rain later because of that pale light.

Maybe! It does look a bit gloomy, doesn't it?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To become lighter in color or less intense; to lose color or brightness.

Example

She paled when she heard the bad news.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how he paled when the ghost story was told?

Yeah, it was hilarious! He looked so scared.

I thought he was going to faint!

Definition

A fence or boundary that encloses an area, often made of wooden stakes or posts.

Example

The children played safely inside the pale that surrounded the garden.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new park they opened just beyond the pale?

No, I haven’t! What’s it like?

I think it has a really nice area within the pale for kids to play.

Definition

To make something less bright or intense in color, or to cause it to lose its color.

Example

The sudden news seemed to pale her usual vibrant smile.

Tense Forms

Conversation

You really pale in comparison to your sister when it comes to painting.

I know, right? She has such a talent for it.

Yeah, it's like she can make anything look amazing, while I just try to stay within the lines.

Root Explanation

Pale → The word originates from Old French *pale* (meaning light in color or lacking intensity) and is derived from Latin *pallidus* (meaning pale or wan). It describes a color that is light or lacking in saturation.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old French word for light color — that's how you remember that 'pale' refers to something that is light in color.

Visually Confused Words