© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

vermilion

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /vərˈmɪljən/

KK: /vɚˈmɪljən/

adjective
Definition

This word describes a bright red color that can also have a hint of orange.


Example

The artist used a vermilion shade to paint the sunset.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you seen that new painting at the gallery?
Sloth B
Yeah, it’s stunning! The vermilion really pops out.
Sloth A
I know, right? It adds such energy to the whole piece.
Sloth B
Absolutely! It makes the other colors feel more vibrant.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
crimson
scarlet
ruby
Antonyms
pale
dull
washed
noun
Definition

A bright red color or pigment, often used in art and decoration.


Example

The artist chose a vibrant vermilion for the sunset in her painting.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever seen a painting that uses vermilion as the main color?
Sloth B
Yeah, I saw one at the gallery last week; it was stunning!
Sloth A
I love how vermilion really pops against darker shades.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To color or dye something in a bright red to orange shade.


Example

The artist decided to vermilion the canvas to give it a vibrant look.


Tense Forms

Past: vermilioned

Past Participle: vermilioned


Conversation
Sloth A
I really want to vermilion my old bicycle.
Sloth B
That sounds like a fun project! What color are you thinking?
Sloth A
I think a bright vermilion will make it stand out.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Vermilion is derived from the Latin word "vermiculus" (meaning little worm), which refers to the cochineal insect used to produce the red dye. The suffix "-ion" indicates a state or condition. Thus, vermilion refers to the state or condition of being a bright red color, originally associated with the dye made from the insect.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'little worm' ('vermiculus') that produces a bright red dye, helping you remember that 'vermilion' is a vivid red color.

Visually Confused Words
demilion
Is this page helpful?
Absolutely! It gives such a vibrant feel to any artwork.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
cinnabar
scarlet
crimson
Antonyms
blue
green
yellow
Absolutely! It will look amazing once it's done.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tint
stain
paint
Antonyms
bleach
fade
wash