monokrom

Monokrom, or monochrome, is a term used to describe images, designs, or displays that use only one color or shades of that color, including grayscale. The word derives from Greek monos, meaning single, and chroma, color. In Indonesian and several other languages, monokrom is commonly used to refer to black-and-white imagery, but more broadly it can describe any palette limited to a single hue.

In art and photography, monokrom emphasizes form, texture, light, and shadow rather than color differentiation. Monochrome works may use black, white, and grays or a restricted color family, such as variations of blue or sepia. This approach can create a cohesive mood, timelessness, or an abstract focus on composition.

In design and publishing, monokrom palettes simplify visual communication and improve legibility or visual impact. Monochrome schemes are often chosen for branding, interfaces, or editorial layouts to achieve clarity and unity. In film and video, monochrome styling, especially black-and-white, has historical significance and remains a deliberate aesthetic choice for mood and stylistic expression.

In technology, a true monochrome display or printer emits images using a single color channel (often grayscale or a single ink color). Modern devices can simulate monochrome effects digitally by converting color images to grayscale or applying a restricted hue.

Overall, monokrom signifies a deliberate limitation of color to explore form, contrast, and mood, and it remains a versatile tool across art, media, and technology. See also: monochrome, grayscale, sepia.