Pronunciation: [dɪkˈʌlə] (IPA) 
The word "decolour" is spelled with the British English spelling of "-our" instead of the American English spelling of "-or". It means to remove or reduce color. The IPA transcription of the word is /diˈkʌlə/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by a stressed second syllable with a short "u" sound. The final syllable is pronounced with the schwa sound, which is similar to the "uh" sound.
Decolour is a transitive verb that refers to the action of removing or reducing the color of something, thereby making it colorless or less vivid. It is primarily used to describe the process of eliminating or diminishing the hue, shade, or tint of an object, surface, or substance. Decolourization may occur naturally or be purposely induced through various techniques and agents.
The term often applies to materials such as fabrics, dyes, paints, pigments, or liquids that have a specific color. For instance, if a fabric has been accidentally stained or dyed with an undesirable color, decolouring it involves treating it with chemicals or methods that strip away or fade the unwanted color, ultimately achieving colorlessness or returning it back to its original hue.
Decolouration can also apply to substances like liquids or solutions. In this context, it refers to the process of removing or reducing the color or pigmentation present in the solution. This may involve filtration, absorption, chemical reactions, or other means to alter the constituents responsible for the appearance of color.
In summary, decolour means to eliminate or decrease the intensity of color, converting something from a colored state to a colorless or less colorful state. The specific methods or techniques employed to achieve decolourization may vary depending on the nature of the material or substance being treated.
To deprive of colour; to bleach.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "decolour" is derived from the combination of two root words: "de-" and "colour".
The prefix "de-" is of Latin origin, meaning "reverse" or "undo". It conveys the idea of negation or removal.
The word "colour" originates from the Latin word "color" which means "hue" or "shade". Over time, it has been adopted into various languages with similar meanings.
By combining "de-" and "colour", the word "decolour" is formed, which generally refers to the process of removing or reducing color from something.
