The word "palette" is spelled p-a-l-e-t-t-e. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /ˈpæl.ɪt/. The first syllable is pronounced like "pal" and rhymes with "gal", while the second syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound and rhymes with "fit". The double "t" at the end is unusual but serves to differentiate the word from "palate", which is pronounced with a long "a" sound as in "late". A palette is a flat tool used by artists to mix and hold colors.
A palette, as commonly known, is a flat, usually rectangular surface on which an artist arranges and mixes colors for painting. It is a fundamental tool for artists, as it allows for convenient color mixing, matching, and testing. Palettes can be made from various materials, including wood, plastic, glass, or porcelain, with each material having its advantages and drawbacks. Wood palettes are favored for their durability and the ease with which oil paints can be cleaned off them, while porcelain palettes are admired for their non-porous and stain-resistant qualities. Additionally, some palettes come with a thumbhole or handle, allowing artists to comfortably hold and control them during the creative process.
Furthermore, the term "palette" has also adopted a figurative meaning in various fields. In cinematography and digital imaging, a palette refers to a range of colors available for use, particularly in graphics or image editing software. It consists of a limited number of colors chosen to create a specific aesthetic or achieve a desired visual effect. Additionally, in the culinary world, a palette represents the range of flavors, ingredients, and techniques that a chef utilizes to create a dish or a menu. By combining different elements from their palette, a chef can produce a diverse array of culinary creations to suit different tastes and preferences. Ultimately, whether in art or other domains, a palette is a foundational tool or collection of resources that facilitates creativity and expression.
The small oval flat of wood or other material on which a painter lays his colours while painting, having a thumb-hole at one end for holding it.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "palette" comes from the Old French term "pallette", which was derived from the Latin word "pala". "Pala" initially meant a shovel or spade, but over time, it also started to refer to a small, flat board used for various purposes. In the 16th century, the meaning of the word evolved further to specifically denote the wooden board artists use for holding and mixing colors. This sense of the word has remained in use ever since.