dégradé
/de.ɡʁa.de/
The English phrase 'ombre' can be translated into French as dégradé.
In French, dégradé refers to a color effect where one shade gradually blends into another. You may encounter the word ombré used in specific contexts, such as les cheveux ombrés for ombre hair or l'effet ombré for an ombre effect.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 3 syllables and is pronounced /de.ɡʁa.de/.
Did you know?
- While English speakers use 'ombre' to describe a color gradient, in French the word ombre specifically refers to a shadow or shade cast by an object.
- In French, the word dégradé also describes a 'degraded' or diminished state, such as a declining level of quality or health.
- The word ombre is used in the expression à l'ombre de, which can mean 'under the protection of' a powerful person or entity.
Examples in context
- Cette robe a un magnifique dégradé de couleurs.This dress has a beautiful ombre of colors.
- J'aime beaucoup les cheveux ombrés d'Emma!I really like Emma's ombré hair!
- J'aime beaucoup ce dégradé de bleu.I really like this blue gradient.
- Elle porte un maquillage en dégradé.She is wearing gradient makeup.
Example conversation
Nathan and Chloé are discussing a painting in an art gallery.
- NathanRegarde le dégradé du ciel dans ce tableau.Look at the gradient of the sky in this painting.
- ChloéC'est vrai, les couleurs passent doucement du orange au violet.It's true, the colors shift softly from orange to purple.
- NathanJe me demande comment l'artiste a réussi cet effet.I wonder how the artist achieved this effect.
- ChloéIl a sûrement utilisé un dégradé très précis.He probably used a very precise gradient.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry dégradé, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
