Cochineal (Noun)
Meaning 1
Mexican red scale insect that feeds on cacti; the source of a red dye.
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- The cochineal insect has been used by the Aztecs and Mayans for centuries to create a vibrant red dye from the cactus-feeding bugs.
- Natural dyes such as those derived from the cochineal are making a comeback in the textile industry.
- Historically, the cochineal, a small insect found on cacti, was a source of valuable red dye traded extensively across the Americas.
- Early European artists often struggled to replicate the vibrant colors achieved using cochineal, particularly in crimson red hues.
- These cochineal insects are often cultivated on prickly pear cacti, the larval stage of their life cycle being the primary source of the prized crimson dye.
Synonyms
Hypernyms
Meaning 2
A red dyestuff consisting of dried bodies of female cochineal insects.
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- The expensive fabric was dyed with cochineal, giving it a vibrant red color.
- Cochineal has been used for centuries in the textile industry to produce a range of red shades.
- The insect-based cochineal was a highly prized luxury item in many ancient cultures.
- Historical re-enactors often use natural dyes like cochineal to create authentic costumes.
- Cochineal, extracted from female Dactylopius coccus insects, has been replaced in many industries by synthetic alternatives.