Cardinal (color) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cardinal |
|
|---|---|
| Color coordinates | |
| Hex triplet | #C41E3A |
| Source | Maerz and Paul |
_male.jpg)
Cardinal is a very bright and strong shade of red. This color likely got its name from the special red robes worn by cardinals in the Catholic Church. These cardinals are important leaders within the church.
The beautiful cardinal bird also shares its name with these church leaders. This is because the bird's feathers are a similar bright red color.
The first time the word "cardinal" was used to describe a color in the English language was in the year 1698.
Contents
What is Cardinal Red?
Cardinal red is a deep, vivid shade of red. It is often described as a strong and striking color. Think of the color of a ripe strawberry or a bright red sports car. It stands out and catches your eye.
How is Cardinal Red Different from Other Reds?
There are many shades of red, like scarlet, crimson, and maroon. Cardinal red is usually brighter and more intense than maroon. It is also often deeper than a simple bright red. It has a rich quality that makes it unique.
Where Does the Name Come From?
The name "cardinal" for this color has two main connections. Both are linked to the color red.
Cardinals in the Catholic Church
The most common idea is that the color is named after the robes worn by cardinals. These are high-ranking officials in the Catholic Church. They wear special red clothing as a sign of their position. This red color is very similar to what we call cardinal red.
The Cardinal Bird
Another source for the name is the cardinal bird. This bird is famous for its bright red feathers. Male cardinals are especially vibrant. Their striking color made people think of the rich red robes of the church cardinals. So, the bird and the color share a name.
History of the Color Name
The use of "cardinal" as a color name is quite old. It was first written down in English in 1698. This shows that people have recognized and named this specific shade of red for a long time. It has been a popular color in art, fashion, and design for centuries.
