Carmine
/ˈkɑːr.mɪn/noun
A deep red color or pigment derived from cochineal insects.
Did you know?Carmine was historically used not only for dyes in textiles but also as a food coloring, often shrouded in secrecy due to its insect origins.
Etymological Timeline
Late Latin
Latin
carmīne
“a dye made from crushed insects.”
12th Century
Old Spanish
carmín
“a bright red dye from the kermes insect.”
17th Century
English
carmine
“a vivid red pigment derived from cochineal.”
Modern English
English
carmine
“a deep red color, often used in art and cosmetics.”