multicolored

Multicolored is an adjective used to describe something that displays more than one color. The term combines multi- “many” with color, and is widely used in American and British English. Variations include multicolour and multicoloured in British usage, with the American form typically written multicolored.

Multicolored typically implies multiple distinct colors on a single surface, rather than a single color plus shading. Related terms include polychrome or polychromatic, which emphasize the presence of several colors; variegated describes irregular patches or streaks of different colors; iridescent or opalescent refers to colors that change with lighting angles rather than remaining fixed.

In nature, multicolored patterns occur in many organisms and structures. Birds such as parrots and toucans, tropical fish, butterflies, and beetles often display multiple hues. Flowers may combine contrasting colors to attract pollinators, while some leaves or fruits show variegation that resembles multicoloring. Multicolored patterns can serve functions such as camouflage, warning signals, mate attraction, or signaling.

In human culture and industry, multicolored designs appear in textiles, fashion, artwork, and decorative arts. Printing and digital imaging render multicolored images through additive (RGB) or subtractive (CMYK) color mixing. Multicolored flags, banners, logos, mosaics, and quilts use multiple colors to convey symbolism or aesthetic effect.

Because it is a descriptive term rather than a precise measurement, multicolored can cover a wide range of color varieties—from a few contrasting hues to a riot of color.