Definition
Tinge refers to a slight or small amount of color, flavor, or feeling that is added to something, often to modify or enhance its overall character or quality.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Noun or Verb
Synonyms
Hint, trace, touch, shade, suggestion
Antonyms
Erase, remove, eliminate, purify, cleanse
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | tincture, tinge, tinges, tinctures |
| Verb | tincture, tincturing, tinges, tingeing, tinctured, tinge, tinctures, tinged |
| Adjective | None |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
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As she ventured into the dark, abandoned house, a tinge of fear crept up her spine, adding an unsettling edge to her curiosity, as shadows danced ominously and the creaking floorboards echoed through the silence, heightening the sense of impending danger lurking in the shadows.
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His voice had a tinge of sadness when he spoke about his lost pet.
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The cake had a tinge of cinnamon that made it taste even better.
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Her cheeks had a slight tinge of red from the cold wind.
Usage
The word tinge is often used to describe the addition of a small or slight amount of something to modify or enhance the character or quality of a thing. For example, a painting might have a tinge of blue to give it a calming effect, or a conversation might have a tinge of humor to make it more engaging. The word can also be used as a verb to describe the act of adding a small amount of color or flavor to something.
The word tinge has its roots in the Old English word “tingan,” which means “to tint or dye.” This root helps to explain the word’s association with color and the act of adding a slight coloration to something.
The word tinge is commonly used to describe the addition of color to a physical object, such as a painting or a piece of clothing. It can also be used to describe the addition of flavor to food or drink, such as a tinge of lemon in a cocktail. In addition, the word can be used to describe the addition of a slight feeling or emotion to a situation, such as a tinge of sadness or nostalgia.
The word tinge can also be modified with prefixes and suffixes to create related words. For example, the prefix “re-” can be added to create the word “retinge,” which means to add color again or to restore color. The suffix “-y” can be added to create the word “tingey,” which refers to something that has a slight coloration or hue.
When using the word tinge, it is important to consider the context in which it is being used. While the word is often used to describe the addition of something positive or beneficial, it can also be used to describe the addition of something negative or unwanted. As with any descriptive word, it is important to use tinge with care and precision to convey the intended meaning.