Definition

A green or blue substance that forms on copper, brass, or bronze when they are exposed to air or seawater for a long time, often used as a pigment in paint.

Example

The artist used verdigris to create a beautiful green hue in his painting.

Conversation

Have you seen that old statue by the park?

Yeah, it has such a unique color to it.

I think it's because of the verdigris that formed on it over the years.

That makes sense! It's interesting how nature can change things like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Verdigris comes from the Old French 'vert de gris', meaning 'green of grey'. The term refers to the green pigment obtained from copper, which has a greyish appearance when oxidized. The word combines 'vert' (meaning green) and 'gris' (meaning grey).

Memory Tip

Think of 'green' ('vert') mixed with 'grey' ('gris') to remember that verdigris refers to a green pigment that can appear greyish.

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