pigmentation
Americannoun
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coloration in plants, animals, or man caused by the presence of pigments
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the deposition of pigment in animals, plants, or man
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of pigmentation
1865–70; < Late Latin pigmentāt ( us ) painted, colored ( see pigment, -ate 1) + -ion
Explanation
Pigmentation is the natural tint or color of any living thing. The black pigmentation on your dog's tongue is one clue that she may be part chow chow. Use this fancy word to mean "color," especially when you're talking about plants or animals (including people). The bright green pigmentation of a tree on your block changes to deep orange by mid-October. And the pigmentation in your skin may be slightly darker than your brother's. The word pigmentation comes from pigment and the Latin pingere, "to color or paint," a root it shares with the English word paint.
Vocabulary lists containing pigmentation
"How It Feels to Be Colored Me"
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Vocabulary from Readings 2, Unit 4
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Lessons 9–10
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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.
Researchers place color reference charts around newly planted coral to record the pigmentation, a method used to monitor its health and detect early signs of heat stress.
From Barron's ● Sep. 10, 2026
Thick hair, tattoos, darker pigmentation or aggressive movement can trip up sensors, says John Schuna, associate professor of kinesiology at Oregon State University.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 7, 2026
Scientists predicted that the Beachy Head Woman probably had light skin pigmentation, blue eyes, and fair hair.
From Science Daily ● Jan. 25, 2026
UVA is associated with ageing of the skin and pigmentation as well as skin cancer.
From BBC ● Jun. 30, 2025
In addition I had my medicines and a month’s supply of the pigmentation capsules.
From "Black Like Me" by John Howard Griffin
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