primary color

noun

Synonyms of primary colornext
: any of a set of colors from which all other colors may be derived

Examples of primary color in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Flimsy plastic yard games in bright primary colors are a thing of the past. Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Apr. 2026 Instead, this grounding property is a true architectural feat, with curved clay walls that set the stage for a primary color palette and minimalist furniture silhouettes. Erika Owen, Architectural Digest, 29 Apr. 2026 Bright primary colors are in right now, so the key to orchestrating a dreamy look has a lot to do with adding a pop of red. Ángela Belda, Glamour, 26 Apr. 2026 If your palette is skewing more English Garden than primary colors, these are a great pick. Ashley Chalmers, The Spruce, 26 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for primary color

Word History

First Known Use

1817, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of primary color was in 1817

Cite this Entry

“Primary color.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/primary%20color. Accessed 4 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

primary color

noun
: any of a set of colors from which all other colors may be made with the colors for light being red, green, and blue and for pigments or paint being red, yellow, and blue

Medical Definition

primary color

noun
: any of a set of colors (as red, yellow, and blue or red, green, and blue) from which all other colors may be derived

More from Merriam-Webster on primary color

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster