Washed-out

The adjective 'washed-out' describes something that has lost its original color, vibrancy, or intensity, appearing faded or pale. It can refer to the appearance of objects, like clothes or walls, or to the condition of a person, implying a lack of energy or vitality. Figuratively, it can also describe ideas, concepts, or even a person's personality, signifying a lack of originality, depth, or impact. The term suggests something has been diluted or weakened, losing its distinct character through exposure to light, water, or other elements. The implication is often one of something being diminished from its former state. Its uses range from describing the physical state of colors to describing the mental or emotional state of individuals or ideas.

Washed-out meaning with examples

• The old photograph, left out in the sun for years, had a washed-out appearance; the colors were barely distinguishable. The faded images of the people in the photograph were a sad reminder of a life that was once full of bright color and vitality. It felt like something from another time, completely different from the world she lived in today.
• After weeks of battling the flu, Sarah looked completely washed-out, with pale skin and dark circles under her eyes. She lacked any enthusiasm, and her vibrant personality had seemingly disappeared. The illness had taken a significant toll on her, leaving her physically depleted and emotionally subdued, and there wasn't much that she could do about it.
• The marketing campaign for the new product felt washed-out, rehashing old ideas without any fresh perspectives. The slogans seemed uninspired and failed to capture any interest. It lacked the necessary energy to grab attention in such a competitive landscape, with nothing new to say. The result was a muted message that was ineffective in drawing in any of the target demographic.
• The walls of the living room were painted a washed-out beige, creating a bland atmosphere that lacked character. It made the whole space look dull and uninteresting, like the painter had been too conservative in their choice of color, with no real personality. The absence of any contrasting shades only made the beige seem even less inviting.