What does ASHEN mean?

ashen

Part of speech: Adjective

Definition: Having a pale grey color, typically due to illness, shock, or fear.

Pronunciation (US): /ˈæʃən/

Pronunciation (UK): /ˈaʃ(ə)n/

Origin and Usage: The word "ashen" comes from the Old English word "æsce" meaning "ash tree". It has been used in English since the 16th century to describe the color of ash or ashes, and later came to be used to describe the pale grey color of someones skin or complexion, especially when they are ill, shocked, or frightened.

Synonyms: Pale, pallid, wan, ashy, grey, colorless, bloodless, ghostly, deathly

Related Words: Ashed, ashes, ashet, ashy

Example Sentences:

• Her face was ashen with fear when she heard the news.
• He looked ashen and weak after the long illness.
• The sky turned ashen as the sun set behind the mountains.