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Synonyms

local color

American  

noun

  1. distinctive, sometimes picturesque characteristics or peculiarities of a place or period as represented in literature or drama, or as observed in reality.

  2. Fine Arts. the natural color of a particular object as it appears in normal light.


Etymology

Origin of local color

First recorded in 1715–25

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Hughes also predicted that global diets will become more uniform, since the loss of agricultural and livestock variety will lead to a loss of local color in diets.

From Salon May 4, 2023

The plot strains credulity less than many procedural series do — and they all do — and the production aims for realistic local color.

From Los Angeles Times May 11, 2022

Whether you’re looking for the best neutral paint color for your home or you’re ready for something a bit outside your comfort zone, start by considering these 15 factors, with tips from local color experts.

From Seattle Times Oct. 14, 2021

Here’s a region-by-region look at the status and quality of local color.

From Washington Post Oct. 8, 2021

I know I should probably hate that about interstates and yearn for the halcyon days of yore, back when you could be drenched in local color at every turn— but whatever.

From "Paper Towns" by John Green

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