# greenish

/ˈɡɹinɪʃ/ (US) · /ɡɹˈiːnɪʃ/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/greenish
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

slightly green in color. You use this when something is not perfectly green but looks like it might be.

For teachers: having a slight green tint or being somewhat green in hue. Formed by the suffix '-ish', which indicates a moderate or approximate quality.

## Examples

- The old copper roof has a greenish color.
- After several days in the sun, the clear pool water began to take on a greenish tint due to algae growth.
- The artist blended a small amount of yellow into the blue paint to create a greenish wash that perfectly captured the murky depths of the lake at twilight.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as a gradable adjective; often precedes the noun it modifies or follows a linking verb like 'look' or 'turn'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.