Jet black is a term used to describe a shade of black that is deep and opaque, just like a piece of black coal or a jet stone. The phonetic transcription of jet is /dʒɛt/, which represents the initial sound of the word in English. The transcription of black is /blæk/, which includes the voiceless consonant /k/ at the end. Together, these two words form the term jet black, which is commonly used in fashion and design industries to describe objects or fabrics that are black in color with no hint of gray or brown.
Jet black is an adjective used to describe an intense and extremely dark black color. The term "jet" refers to a type of lustrous black coal, reflecting the intense darkness and shine of this color. It is known for its deep, opaque, and profound darkness, lacking any perceptible hint or undertone of other colors. Jet black is often considered the ultimate shade of black, symbolizing richness, elegance, and sophistication.
This hue is typically seen in certain natural elements, such as the feathers of certain birds or the glossy coat of certain animals. It has a striking and immediate impact, catching the eye with its depth and intensity. Jet black is notably darker and more concentrated than regular black, creating a strong visual contrast when paired with other shades or used as an accent color.
The term "jet black" can also be used in a figurative sense to describe something or someone that is completely black or darkened. It may connote mysteriousness, secrecy, or ominousness, depending on the context.
Overall, jet black is a captivating and captivatingly deep black color, distinguished by its remarkable depth and lack of any discernible coloration. It signifies darkness at its ultimate point, bereft of any traces of lightness, creating a visually striking and evocative effect in various applications from fashion to design.
Of the colour of jet; of the deepest black.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "jet" in the term "jet black" originates from the Old French word "jaiet" or "gaiet", which came from the Latin word "gagates" or "gagas". "Gagas" referred to a type of stone, specifically lignite or jet. Jet is a type of coal formed from trees that have undergone high-pressure fossilization over millions of years. Due to its intense black color and deep, polished or matte finish, jet became associated with the color black. Over time, "jet black" became a common expression to describe a very dark, intense shade of black.