whiter

Whiter is the comparative form of the adjective white. It denotes a greater degree of whiteness or lightness when two or more things are compared. In everyday English, it is used to describe objects, substances, or appearances that are more white than another item—such as walls that have been repainted, paper that has been bleached, or fur that appears paler. It can also describe the perceived lightness of color or brightness in images and lighting.

Note on usage: When emphasizing a larger degree of whiteness, speakers may also use “more white” or “whiter” depending on the construction. The word is not typically applied to abstract concepts of morality or purity without figurative context; those uses are metaphorical and culturally nuanced.

Origins: The word comes from Old English hwīt, with the comparative suffix -er forming “whiter” in Middle English and Modern English. It is closely related to forms in other Germanic languages.

Common related terms: white, whiten, whiteness, whitening and bleaching. In color science, whiteness is a perceptual attribute associated with high luminance and lightness; “whiter” in such contexts may be used descriptively but is less technical than standardized colorimetric terms.

Limitations: “Whiter” applies when comparing equivalently defined whiteness under consistent lighting and material properties; misapplication can arise with context-dependent shading or stains.