ruddle
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈrʌdəl/
KK: /ˈrʌdəl/
noun
Definition
A type of red iron ore that is used for coloring and marking, often found in natural deposits.
Example
The artist used ruddle to create vibrant red hues in her paintings.
Conversation
Have you ever worked with ruddle for art projects?
No, I haven't. What is it used for?
It's a red ocherous iron ore that's great for dyeing.
That sounds interesting! I might try it for my next painting.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
ochre
pigment
dye
Antonyms
colorless
bleach
whiten
transitive verb
Definition
To color or mark something with a red pigment, often used in reference to sheep.
Example
Farmers ruddle their sheep to identify them easily.
Tense Forms
Past: ruddled
Past Participle: ruddled
Conversation
Did you see how they ruddle the sheep for the festival?
Yeah, it looked really interesting!
I wonder if it's difficult to ruddle them evenly.
Root Explanation
Ruddle originates from Old English 'ruddle', meaning red ochre or a red pigment. It refers specifically to a reddish substance used for coloring or marking.
Memory Tip
Think of the Old English word for a red pigment — that's why 'ruddle' refers to a reddish coloring substance.
Visually Confused Words
repuddle
suddle
rundle
riddle
raddle
puddle
nuddle
muddle