Meaning & Definition of word "Pale"

Pale

/peɪl/

noun:

  • 1. A stake or post used to enclose an area.
    • Example: The horses were kept within a pale made of wooden stakes.
  • 2. The limits, bounds, or confines of something.
    • Example: The village lies outside the pale of the forest.

verb:

  • 1. To become or make pale in color.
    • Example: Her cheeks paled as she heard the shocking news.

adjective:

  • 1. Light in color or shade; not bright or deep.
    • Example: Her pale dress seemed to glow in the evening light.
  • 2. Lacking intensity of color; washed out.
    • Example: He looked pale after recovering from the illness.
  • 3. Weak or insufficient in strength or significance.
    • Example: His argument was pale compared to the evidence presented.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old French 'pal', from Latin 'pallidus'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

pale in comparison:

To seem insignificant or less impressive when compared to something else.

pale with fear:

To look very frightened or worried.

pale as a ghost:

Extremely pale, often due to shock or fear.

Related Words

paleness:

The quality of being pale.

pallid:

Very pale in appearance, typically due to poor health.

bleach:

To make white or colorless, often used in reference to lightening colors.

Slang Meanings of pale

Meaning: pale out

Example Sentence: He totally paled out when he found out he failed the test.

Meaning: pale face

Example Sentence: Look at him, he's such a pale face at the party!