Complexioned

The word 'complexioned' describes the color or tone of a person's skin. It's a descriptive adjective that relates to the pigmentation and general appearance of one's face and body. Complexion, from the Latin 'complexio', meaning 'arrangement' or 'combination,' refers to the combination of color, texture, and overall appearance of the skin. It can indicate health, ethnicity, and exposure to environmental factors. Descriptors used with complexioned help specify a particular tone (e.g., fair-complexioned, dark-complexioned, olive-complexioned). It is important to use this term respectfully, as it is often tied to cultural and ethnic identity, especially when used with a defining modifier. The term helps to quickly visualize skin appearance when used as a descriptive element in character or setting descriptions.

Complexioned meaning with examples

• The novel's protagonist was a fair-complexioned young woman, her skin almost translucent in the soft morning light. This highlighted her rosy cheeks, a stark contrast to her dark, expressive eyes. Her complexion was the subject of frequent compliments and was considered a mark of her delicate beauty and health, setting her apart.
• He was a dark-complexioned man, his skin reflecting the sun's intensity. Years of working outdoors had deepened his tan, giving him a rugged appearance, especially in contrast to his neatly kept white hair. His dark complexion, combined with his imposing build, suggested a life of physical labor.
• The artist meticulously painted the portrait, emphasizing the subject’s olive-complexioned skin. The subtle interplay of light and shadow accentuated the natural warmth of her complexion, lending the painting a sense of realism and vibrancy. The olive tone was a striking feature, and a part of her Mediterranean heritage.
• She was described as being a pale-complexioned woman, prone to blushing. It was due to her delicate constitution and the long, shaded hours that she spent indoors, often in the company of other frail or shy women. The description captured her gentle nature, contrasting her rosy cheeks, and offering more insight.