how to describe light in creative writing

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Creative Adjectives to Try To Describe Light

Table of Contents

Light is basically defined as something that illuminates, extends, and makes things visible. It may seem like a very dull subject to write about. But with the right adjectives to describe light , a writer can use them to depict different moods, atmospheres, and imaginative points of view.

There are many ways you can go about describing light. And there are countless adjectives to describe it. And we’re going to talk about that and more in this article. Keep on reading to learn how to describe light interestingly and creatively!

Colorful streaks of light passing through a tube with a triangular prism.

What are Adjectives?

Adjectives are words that modify a noun by giving it additional characteristics or qualities . These characteristics can include color, size, shape, personality, and so on.

Unlike adverbs, adjectives are associated with nouns, not verbs. When people describe an object, they often resort to adjectives. For example, when you say, “That lamp is ivory,” you are saying its color is ivory.

Why Adjectives Are Important

The English language comprises countless adjectives, and for a good reason. Without adjectives, our language would be bland and not nearly as expressive.

From describing personality traits to setting the scene of a story, adjectives give meaning to our words. They are powerful tools that allow the writer to paint a picture of the story that the reader is about to experience. And it ultimately makes it feel more personal for the reader.

Creative Adjectives to Describe Light

Aureate: denoting a golden and extravagant color
Blinding: light that’s bright enough to obscure vision
Coruscating: something that’s flashing or sparkling
Crepuscular: dim or similar to twilight;
Dappled: light that makes spots or rounded patches on surfaces
Fluorescent: bright light that’s usually from an electric source
Glancing: flashing or gleaming intermittently
Gleaming: shining and radiating light
Glimmering: shines faintly or unsteadily
Glinting: gives out or reflects only small flashes of light.
Glistening: shining with sparkling light.
Glittering: Adding sparkle to the skin; also brilliant or superficially attractive
Glossy: shiny and smooth, also characterizes wealth or opulence
Illuminating: colorful or shining; highlighted or made clear
Incandescent: light that appears warm and glowing
Iridescent: rainbow-colored light
Lucent: Shining, clear, or bright
Luminescent: light that is emitted without the use of heat, also known as cold light
Luminous: brimming with bright light
Lustrous: light that is smooth or evenly lit
Penumbral : partially shaded
Phosphorescent: light that continues to glow even after the removal of its source
Prismatic: colorful light that’s produced when light passes through a prism
Radiant: shining light that’s glowing brightly.
Resplendent: attractive and impressive because of rich colors
Scintillating: sparkling or shining very brightly, also related to a clever personality
Shimmering: a reflection of soft or wavering light
Spectral: composed of several colors of the spectrum
Translucent: diffused light or transparent

Wrapping Up

With these creative adjectives to describe light, you can add much more depth to your writing. You can describe light in a way that is more meaningful and interesting. These adjectives will help draw the reader in and engage them in your writing.

Creative Adjectives to Try To Describe Light

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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WRITERS HELPING WRITERS®

Helping writers become bestselling authors

Creating Mood In A Scene Using Light and Shadow

August 22, 2016 by ANGELA ACKERMAN

What’s one of the first things a person does to set the mood at home for a romantic evening? She turns down the lights. This simple adjustment is a big step toward creating a calm, receptive atmosphere. Just as the amount and quality of lighting will influence the way people feel in real life, we can adjust the mood for both characters and readers in our stories by playing with light and shadow.

Most everyone has familiar places that they’ve visited in daylight. But enter that same place at night and it becomes unfamiliar, with a totally different feel. By changing the amount and quality of light in a given place, you can shift the mood without changing the setting. For example, consider an example from a classic, L. M. Montgomery’s description of Birch Path, a recurring location in her Anne of Green Gables series:

It was a little narrow, twisting path, winding down over a long hill straight through Mr. Bell’s woods, where the light came down sifted through so many emerald screens that it was as flawless as the heart of a diamond.

One can easily envision this scene under the trees. The green-tinged sunlight gives the scene a lighthearted, cheerful feel, and though the season isn’t mentioned, late spring or summer is inferred, simply by referencing the light.

But the same path traveled later in the day by a character in another frame of mind can look and feel vastly different. Here is Birch Path again, traveled by a more mature Anne in the third book of the series:

Anne felt lonelier than ever as she walked home, going by way of the Birch Path and Willowmere. She had not walked that way for many moons. It was a darkly-purple bloomy night. The air was heavy with blossom fragrance—almost too heavy.

The darkly-purple light, combined with Anne’s loneliness and the cloying odors, give the scene a heavy, melancholy feel that wasn’t there before.

(Do keep in mind this example is sourced from a classic, and when writing for a modern audience, we’d need to be careful about wandering too far down the flowery language path–pun intentional!)

Because light and shadow lies within the realm of universal symbolism , people tend to respond to light in a feral way: well-lit areas are deemed safer, putting us at ease, while darker spots have more weight and feel heavier both on the body and the spirit. When setting the mood for a scene, carefully consider the lighting. How much light is there? Where does it come from? Is it hard or soft, comforting or blinding? Is it constant and totally revealing, or does it allow for shadows and hidden places? Questions like these will serve as a guide for how to light a scene in order to set the desired mood.

Keep in mind however that light and shadow may represent something entirely different if one has taken the time to set up personal symbolism . Light itself may represent pain, exposure, risk, or danger to a character who lives safely below ground, or by the necessity of survival, is only able to come out at night. One needs only to look at vampire, werewolf, and demon fiction to see this played out within a story.

TIP: Should you adapt the universal symbolism of light and shadow to something personal which fits the personality of your point of view character or the reality of the world upon which the story is built, make sure to set this up so the meaning is always clear to readers.

Want more ideas on how to set the mood? Save this checklist to Pinterest.

Becca and I have a love affair with powerful description , the kind that does so much more than paints a picture for readers. Creating Mood is only one of ways setting can make your scenes rich and more meaningful.

If you’d like to find out how to also use it to characterize the story’s cast , reveal critical backstory naturally and effectively, steer the plot , reinforce emotion , provide tension & conflict , poke at your protagonist’s emotional wounds and gosh, SO MUCH MORE, we hope you’ll check out our new Urban Setting and Rural Setting Thesaurus books. 🙂

Happy writing!

And, if you’d like more information on creating mood, visit Jami Gold’s terrific blog. 🙂

Angela is a writing coach, international speaker, and bestselling author who loves to travel, teach, empower writers, and pay-it-forward. She also is a founder of One Stop For Writers , a portal to powerful, innovative tools to help writers elevate their storytelling.

Reader Interactions

February 17, 2021 at 9:17 am

Excellent, as always. Thanks, Becca and Angela.

February 17, 2021 at 11:58 am

Happy to be of service 🙂

August 28, 2016 at 12:50 pm

Excellent information, as always. Thanks!!

August 22, 2016 at 12:20 pm

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned as a new writer was that straight description is almost never as powerful as description filtered through the lens of the point-of-view character. These are perfect examples, thanks.

August 22, 2016 at 1:22 pm

Yes, absolutely! When you filter it, you get the emotional slant of that description. A character who is afraid will see the world much differently than one that is content, or filled with gratitude, or elation.

August 22, 2016 at 12:04 pm

Okay okay, I’ll buy a setting thesaurus! Question: my own epic-in-the-making, The Age of Pisces, is set in the ancient past (48 BC to start with). Would your Urban Setting Thesaurus have anything to offer the creator of ancient urban settings? Or should I stick with The Rural Setting Thesaurus ?

August 22, 2016 at 1:19 pm

Both of the thesaurus books have high level lessons on how to use description effectively, so we recommend using them as a pair, but that said, for you, Rural will likely have the most value as far as the entries go and that volume contains the natural settings (rivers, mountains, deserts, forests, etc.) However, with the urban volume, keep in mind that while clearly a historical book won’t use the exact same description as a contemporary setting, the elements will be the same in the sense that urban areas, past or present, will still have streets, law enforcement and government buildings, cultural influences, entertainment venues, construction, etc. and so you can use this volume to help you layer realism in any setting. 🙂

Hope this helps! And thanks for wanting to give it a test drive. 🙂 We hope you love either or both, whichever you choose. 🙂

August 22, 2016 at 8:28 am

This was a great post. Just added it to my Pinterest board and my class wiki. Thanks.

August 22, 2016 at 1:21 pm

Awesome! Glad it will help 🙂

August 22, 2016 at 8:19 am

I love prose that creates mood and scenes that I can sink into. But I have to say that the “darkly-purple bloomy night” would read as purple prose to most modern readers today. Your Rural Setting Thesaurus looks fascinating though. I’ve got to get it.

August 22, 2016 at 10:04 am

Paula, I agree–this example does walk the edge and if there was too much of this, it would definitely be purple. That’s one thing we definitely do need to remember when sourcing the classics, so I should probably add a disclaimer. That said, I also love the creativity if it, of thinking past the common, so that’s why I included it. 🙂

[…] Creating Mood In A Scene Using Light and Shadow […]

[…] Creating Mood In A Scene Using Light and Shadow – WRITERS HELPING WRITERS® […]

[…] of communication in the world you build, Iain Bain explores how to write funny, Angela Ackerman creates mood in a scene using light and shadow, and Jodie Renner discusses the how and when to use hyphens, dashes, and […]

65 Ways to Describe Sight and Eyes in Your Writing

how to describe light in creative writing

Ever since William Shakespeare said:

“The Eyes are the window to your soul”

… people have been trying to decode ever glitter, wrinkle, squint, and gaze that passes from those orbs. When I read a description that catches my attention, I copy it down, using it later to remind me there’s more to a character’s eyes than ‘she looked’ or ‘his blue eyes’.

Here’s my list of 65 (and growing):

A note: These are for inspiration only . They can’t be copied because they’ve been pulled directly from an author’s copyrighted manuscript (intellectual property is immediately copyrighted when published).

Eyed me as though his bullshit meter was ticking in the red zone.
He blinked as his eyes adjusted.
an alertness in the eyes, behind the glasses that sat crookedly on the nose
Cold gaze fixed on the anxious young man
Cast a skeptical eye
Sure, we know that, said Herrera, taking off his glasses to inspect the lenses.
Gaffan saw Marley’s eyes open wide in surprise and recognition.
Eyes bleary from surveillance and the two-hour drive
Vision narrowed to a pinprick
Eyes clouded
eyes locked on like magnets
four pairs of eyes blinked in unison
studied her with a predator’s unwavering attention
blinked a couple of times

eyes narrowed to slits
Narrowed his eyes
eyes locked in a shared understanding
yellow rimmed eyes narrowing
peer sightlessly at a wall
eyes turned inward
shook her head and stared at the pool
Staring sightlessly into the darkness
Stared off into the crowd but didn’t seem to see anything
Stared into the distance
Fixed expression
Looked at a place somewhere over his shoulder
focused on an empty space in the air between them
eyes narrowed, she got a vertical wrinkle between her eyebrows. Her lips pursed slightly.
Their eyes met, but he broke it off
meaningful eye contact
studied Hood with her level gaze
risked a peek
she screwed her eyes shut
stared brazenly into her eyes
opened her eyes wide
dark eyes radiated a fierce, uncompromising intelligence
rubbed raw eyes
eyes felt scratchy and I was jittery with coffee and raw from sleeplessness.
His eyes flickered past me.
His eyes were never still and he never looked at me except in passing
Caught her peeking at Hawk sideways out of a narrow corner of her right eye.
Watching the bystanders from the edge of his vision
Looked him over with the respect men who have not served give those who have

Ferret-like eyes
Dark eyes smoldering
Lined from squinting into too many suns
Eyes were dark pools of fear
looked like hell—purple bags under her eyes,
eyes carried a mixture of shock and barely contained anger
bright eyes of an optimist
one eye clouded with a cataract
wounded eyes
his body felt heavy
eyes were dark, cupped by fleshy pouches
wire-rimmed glasses
Slate-blue eyes
Dark solemn eyes
Spark in his grey eyes
Steely-eyed
Huge blue eyes that gave her a startled look
black circles beneath her eyes had become bruises
Wide-spread aquamarine eyes
brown eyes wearing reading glasses
Piercing stare
Close set black eyes
Watery blue eyes
Memorable only for his bleak eyes
Nets of wrinkles at the corners of her eyes
Eyes flat as little pebbles
Steely eyed
long eyelashes
laughing eyes
predatory eyes
Eyes were red-rimmed from allergies
Under heavy lids; heavy-lidded
Sensitive brown eyes
Eyes sunk into his sockets
Competitive, fixed, dead-eyed, and querulous stare of people who weren’t getting far enough fast enough
I’ve-seen-it-all eyes
bedroom eyes, dark hair falling into them
Crows feet radiated from corners of eyes
the light fades from his eyes until they are dark and empty
eyes were brown in the middle and bloodshot everywhere else
stared through him
Looked left and right before starting
Pingponging his gaze between A and B
His glance, as conspiratorial as a wink
eyes watched her the way a tiger watched a bunny
Shadow passed over his eyes
Flicker in his eyes
Said without looking at him
looked for a common theme, a thread of some sort
She frowned–couldn’t recall the incident
Heard little and cared less
Hovering over her shoulder
His eyes flattened
His face hardened in concentration
Thinking about my conversation with the old detective
shot a look over the top of his glasses
Squinted at the sun
Arched an eye brow
Looked at me with a strangled expression
Bushy eyebrows
eyebrows of white steel wool
a single bushy bar above the eyes

More descriptors for writing:

Lots of them

48 Collections to Infuse Your Writing

What is a ‘Hacker’

Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular prehistoric fiction saga, Man vs. Nature which explores seminal events in man’s evolution one trilogy at a time. She is also the author of the Rowe-Delamagente thrillers and Building a Midshipman , the story of her daughter’s journey from high school to United States Naval Academy . Her non-fiction includes over a hundred books on integrating tech into education, reviews as an Amazon Vine Voice , a columnist for NEA Today , and a freelance journalist on tech ed topics. Look for her next prehistoric fiction, Savage Land, Winter 2024 .

152 thoughts on “ 65 Ways to Describe Sight and Eyes in Your Writing ”

These tips would also help in writing better essays. Thankyou for sharing

Like Liked by 1 person

They would. Great suggestion.

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Pingback: 65 Ways to Describe Sight and Eyes in Your Writing – Nicole_6

So interesting!

Thank you! It’s easy to fall into the traditional color/size/that sort, but there is so much more to eyes than that. Which–of course–you understand, with your interest in music.

Thank you again for this wonderful reply 💝

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There is no copyright on most if not all of these. You may have copied them from a particular manuscript but the phrases themselves have been used thousands of times…”arched an eyebrow” , “Cast a skeptical eye” – c’mon…look at these phrases…they are all quite generic.

You are right–just an abundance of caution. Thanks, Vicki.

I think they’re pretty neat, Jacqui.

I absolutely love this list. Thank you so much. I’m always searching for lists. One of my favorite lists is finding words to use instead of said.

Glad you found it helpful!

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Jacqui, Can’t comment on just one post — I find something helpful in your posts on matter the subject. For now, the “eyes” have it. Thanks, also on commenting on my posts and for your regular blurbs. Mask up and enjoy the holidays.

I have quite a collection of masks these days! Thanks for the greetings, Nancy!

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Thanks for visiting.

Hi Jacqui, I just got your last book from Amazon and I started to read it. When the Thames is finished I will write about it, as promised. Joanna

Thank you, Joanna! I’d love that. But don’t rush. Your series on rivers is fascinating.

Very useful to many budding writers. Thank you, Jacqui, for your comments about the posts on my blog naturetails.blog I am back home from the hospital but still not very well. Nothing serious. Joanna

I’m so sorry to hear that, Gaby. It’s awful to be sick, especially now.

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Love this! Very helpful.

Thanks! Glad this was helpful.

Wow thanks!! These are worth remembering – or at least remembering where they are.

Pretty amazing how many ways there are to discuss ‘see’!

Reblogged this on Home – SFH and commented: This is such a good list for anyone need good sight words!

Thanks for sharing!

wow amazing list , Thank you for compiling it very useful to me !

I am so amazed by the creativity of writers. These really caught my attention.

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I will look at this list when I’m writing 🤔 my eyes would read. She looked through her red itchy eyes and decided he was a hunk. But what could she do about it at 61 and wrinkled skin. Go to Walmart for Gold Bond!

Like Liked by 2 people

Hehee. You and me both!

I think you are amazing with the wealth of words you provide.

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Just found this – these are great! My eyes are wide with admiration….

I see what you did there!

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Hi Jacqui, Thank you for liking my poem, I love writing poetry…and playing around with words::my passion! Add people and I’m made up! I enjoyed your lists and ideas; thank you.. To think there are only 26 letters in the English language. Isn’t it amazing what us writers do with them. Magic! Best wishes. xx

Well, Nature has us beat. Only 4 bases for DNA and look at all the variation. Yikes!

Thanks goes to you for promoting my work as a powerful Psychic spiritual healer in usa and for liking my blogs, let me live my number here +27634299958 whatsapp. THANKS

Like Liked by 3 people

Thanks for visiting me, too!

Love this! Thanks for taking time away from your writing to visit my blog!

Fun visit, Lily. I’m new to #authorstoolboxbloghop and am enjoying all the new writers I’m meeting!

I’m looking for some advice. I want to describe the look someone gives another person when the former is deliberately feigning interest in a way meant to convey mockery and contempt. I’ll try to give a brief example.

Person A says something person B finds ridiculous or uninteresting.

Person B, being a jerk, makes a sarcastic remark to the effect of “wow, how fascinating!” while giving person A a look that matches her attitude.

It’s all about body language…and the fact that it’s nearly 6 am and I am struggling to be descriptive! Thanks for your help.

Snide? Or dismissive? Or like you just stepped in a cow turd?

Hmm… Let’s see what anyone else has to offer!

some great ideas in this list Jacqui to stimulate the imagination. also, a good reminder about copyright 🙂

I’m pretty paranoid about copyrights. I’m perfectly happy paying for images rather than worrying they’re in the public domain.

exactly. i bought 5 images recently from shuttlestock. not very expensive.

Also technically you can’t copywriter a phrase you didn’t make up. “Narrowed his eyes” is on this list and I’m sure that’s been used thousands of times in manuscripts for many, many years. Copying a whole paragraph that a phrase is imbedded in is wrong, but using common phrases in your writing but putting it in your own context is not violating a copyright.

You’re absolutely right. Good to point this out!

“Eyed me as though his bullshit meter was ticking in the red zone.”. Awesome.

I’ve felt that way myself at times!

Seriously, this is a great list!

Great examples. You had me at the first one.

Yeah, I like that one too. It evokes some good mental images.

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This is excellent! Thanks.

Thanks! They are all quite authentic.

Thank you Jacqui! it was helpful..

I love hearing that, Vijaya.

This is a thorough and useful list, Jacqui. Thank you. 🙂 — Suzanne

I get a lot of inspiration from this one. Thanks, Patricia.

I love posts like this, Jacqui. They make me reach beyond the self-imposed limits of my little grey cells 🙂

Every time I prepare to write “he squinted” or “his ferret eyes”, I check this list. I can do so much more with eyes!

I’ve bookmarked it and will be using in the future 🙂

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Brilliant Jacqui thank you. The eyes are such a crucial element in connection with someone. Eyes meeting across a crowded room has been the start of many a wonderful romance…..

Thanks so much for sharing this post on your blog, Sally. It’s been fun hearing the feedback.

Pleasure Jacqui. x

Reblogged this on Viv Drewa – The Owl Lady .

Thanks for the reblog!

Reblogged this on Chris The Story Reading Ape's Blog .

Thanks for the reblog, Chris!

Welcome, Jacqui – great info 😃

It’s in august company on your blog.

THANK YOU, Jacqui ❤️

Reblogged this on Plaisted Publishing House and commented: Awesome writing tips for Sight and Eyes 🙂

Fantastic list, thank you!

My pleasure.

Excellent, Jacqui. Thanks for sharing.

These definitely inspire me when I get stuck. Thanks for visiting.

Haha! Love the 1st one, I have to use that on my hubby. LOLz

Oh yeah. I use it a lot on mine!

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Awesome write-up. I wonder if a person used some of these phrases in their own book or novel would it be considered plagiarism? I posted earlier but I wrote the wrong address.

It could be–and some of them are so outstanding, genre readers would recognize them for where they came from. Not worth the risk!

thanks for your response. But I think it depends. As I look over some of the words in sight, I already have them in my book and chances are some of the phrases are in other books. Phrases like “Eyes turned inwards”, “Looked him over”, “Blinks several times”, “Squinted into the crowd.” In my novel I used, “His eyes darted back and forth.” coming to find out that the phrase is used in over 15 other novels that I found and I am sure there are more. I’m sure there are probably other phrases that I use in some of these books as well. Can I call it plagiarism if I see phrases I used in my book?

I guess it depends on the complexity of the sentence.

You are right–those types of general phrasing is pretty much public domain. Good to point that out!

Thank you! This is perfect for when I’m sitting there thinking, ‘how should I say?’ which causes me to stop and think too long and uh-oh I wind up in the writer’s block zone!

Thanks exactly what it does for me, too. Inspiration.

Well, isn’t that thorough. i love the first one about the bullshit meter.

We’re so far beyond ‘beady eyes’ aren’t we?

This is so much help. Thank you.

My pleasure!

Wow, so many ways to describe and possibly we still have even more things the eyes express. Magical are the eyes, small organs with great power. Thanks miriam

That is true. I think that veil with just the eyes showing is a perfect example.

Reblogged this on lampmagician .

Thank you so much for sharing. Sometimes my thoughts gets stuck and I need something to give it a kick start. 🙂

That is exactly what these lists are for. Sometimes, I just read the dictionary, find great words that evoke an image that leads to a plot point. I love writing.

If only I had a photographic memory … as long as I didn’t have to sacrifice my busy, sometimes all over the place, creative mind. 😳

This was such a help. Thanks for sharing!

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Thank you so much! These will definitely help me in my writing!

Great writer tips. Thanks for your recent visit to my blog.

These are fun, aren’t they?

This has helped me so much! I always get stuck describing how characters ‘look’ at certain things. Thank you!

It’s amazing how many ways you can say the same thing. Glad you like these.

it was of great help for me.. beautifully expressed…

Thanks! And, I’m sure the cute dog doesn’t hurt it’s read-me value.

no it didn’t… rather its my favorite breed so its just an add on cuteness & more expressive 🙂

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Awesome list!! Thanks for sharing 😀

and a free cute dog picture–what could be better!

Excellent… Being language my second language you have no idea how this post helps me, dear Jacqui… Best wishes! Aquileana ⭐

I bet many of them seem quite odd to you. I’m highly impressed with your writing skills.

Exactly!… But I am learning with your post!… Oh and thank you, Jacqui!… I’d humbly say that I feel I have made considerable improvements! … Best wishes! Aquileana 😀

Reblogged this on quirkywritingcorner and commented: Can someone explain the copywrite law when it comes to using common phrases? I’ve used quite a few of these in my writing and even my nurse’s notes. I did not think using a common phrase would be considered infringement.

My old eyes can’t ‘see’ as much as your young ones and writing brain can Jacqui. You’ve given me so much great tips over the last couple of years, I wish I knew long time ago. These are the ones came at a critical juncture of my [nonsensical?] book. Thanks for your help Jaqui. Arun from over the pond.

I see your eyes laughing! Ah, you are the master of subtle humor, Arun.

You know, I’m always scratching my head and pulling at my hair trying to think of others ways to say “looked”. These will help. Thanks.

And ‘saw’. These aren’t like changing the tag, ‘he said’. They aren’t supposed to be invisible. Gee, it gets hard sometimes.

These are great. Eyes are so expressive and are a must to mention when writing.

They are. Shoulders, feet–they can be ignored, but not what’s communicated with eyes.

With this post Jacqui “The ayes have it”! You are such a great resource, thank you.

Fabulous as always, Jacqui. Thanks so much. Something to chew on. ❤

Chomp chomp!

Great post. I was reminded tonight how important expressive eyes are while watching the Voice.

Since so much of communication is the body, it makes sense we should be aware of what’s being said.

Thanks, Jacqui. This should prove very helpful.

So much more expressive, aren’t they?

Great tips! Thank you so much for sharing! Have a lovely week 🙂

Lots of ways to say, ‘he saw’, aren’t there?

Yes, quite! Thank you. Very useful tips 🙂

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Research for Writers

Setting the Mood: Candlelight

Candles have been with us for thousands of years and though they’re no longer a main source of light in the household, they’ll remain with us a while longer in forms such as decorative or emergency lighting. For this reason they’re common among many time periods and settings, giving authors a lot to play with when it comes to using this humble little device.

The mood and atmosphere that candles can add to a setting is delightfully varied. Depending on the amount of light they give, how many there are, the character’s state of mind, what they leave on their surroundings(such as soot), even the smell they give off, they can range from being soothing and cozy to enhancing a scene’s already-apparent creep factor.

Take scented candles for example. Usually pretty innocuous as long as it’s a scent you don’t hate, but what if the scent is being used to mask something horrible? Your character’s perception of the scent changes as they gain more awareness of the true nature of the scene, and what started as a pleasant smell can become overwhelming, stifling, even nauseating. And if it’s a scent that the character hates or is even allergic to, scented candles are unpleasant right off the bat and then get worse as more environmental details become apparent to them.

The amount of light produced is another angle to look at. A candle that’s bright enough to give light to the whole room will have a more positive effect than one so dim as to allow deep shadows to linger and creep around the edge of the light. Again context is an important factor, as well as the size of the room that the candle is illuminating—a small room will find itself comfortably lit while a large one will have corners and walls lost in shadow. In a positive context a single candle in a large room can still be comforting though, acting as a pool of light where a character can while away the hours with reading or contemplation.

Words for Describing it

Scented candle
Illumination
Pungent (smell, if scented)
Smoke (if tallow or recently snuffed out)
Sweet (smell, if scented)
Stench (smell, if scented or tallow)
Greasy (if tallow)
Nauseating (smell, if scented or tallow)
Overpowering (smell, if scented or tallow)
Reek (smell, if scented or tallow)
Suffocate (smell, if scented or tallow)

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Writers in the Storm

A blog about writing.

Writing About Hair: The Thick and Thin of Descriptions

You all are getting another peek into my magic notebook. This time we're taking a page out of my 17 page section that covers hair, wigs and every description of body hair you can imagine (and probably some of you can't). Now that I've scared you, we're going to talk about the hair on your character's heads - the color, the length, the style . . . We're covering it all. But there are a few very important points we should chat about first.

The #1 thing about hair descriptions is Do Not overuse them . You do not want to be known as "hair girl "or "hair boy!"

#2 on the essential List: Hair descriptions are a part of the character so make them work harder by using them to describe the person “inside,” not just what the person looks like outside.

A tomboy might have a very short, non-nonsense haircut. Then again, she might hide long tresses under a ball cap, because secretly she’d like to be noticed as the girl she really is.
A man who works as an executive might conform to a short, and very tailored look. Or, he wears expensive suits but he wears his hair a little too long because on the weekends he caters to his passion and joins his buddies for motorcycle road trips.

Okay, because I have so many descriptions and definitions, I’m going to cut to the chase.

Alternative Generic Names For Head Hair

Coiffure Curls Down Fringe Fuzz Locks Mane Mop Ringlets Shock Strands Tresses Tufts Wig Wool

Descriptive Hair Phrases

Bangs obscured her eyes like a sheepdog Flaked with snowy dandruff Bleached, bottle baby Braid like a thick black rope Bundled at the nape Bun resembled a cow patty Cascading down her back Chemically damaged Coiled in a top-knot Crowning glory Cupie curls Curls foamed luxuriously Tendrils danced on the breeze Disheveled Downy bond hair sprinkled her arms Dramatic widow’s peak Elaborately dressed with ribbons Electrified Smelled like burnt chicken feathers Snow drifts of dandruff Veiled her expression with Greased into a ducktail Flaming locks fluttered to the floor Fluffy Frizz job, bad perm Glossy locks lifted on the wind Grew like a thatch of straw on a roof Grizzled, gray hair Hair drooped around pale cheeks Hair like Rapunzel Hairy as a dog Hung like a dark river Kinky perm Knotted Left unbound to tumble Like a clown wig, artificial red, plastic shine and fuzzy Like a thatched roof Like she put her finger in a light socket Limp and lifeless Long, shaggy hippy look Lustrous as onyx stone Marcelled into fingerwaves Matted to the scalp Perm fried Prematurely gray Puffed like a bubble around her head Ragged bangs Rat’s nest Ringlets Shock of hair stood straight up Slapped her face like wet worms Sleek and chic Smooth honey dripped over her shoulders Spiky Mohawk style of a punk rocker Spilled out of the hat Spread like feathers on a pillow Standing on end Stiff in front like a cockatoo Straight as a wire Streaked, highlighted Stuck to her sweaty nape Tangled mane Tousled pixie Two-toned dye job Unconquered curls sprang loose Unruly swirl Old-lady blue rinsed hair Vibrant color and shine Wet with sweat White Pigeon Wings at temples Wispy ringlets Wondered what rubble lay beneath that mess Wreathed her face

Hair Texture Phrases

Baby fuzz Bleached hair like mushy wet works Blue feather hair of old lady Bristle top Broom chopped Cat-fur fine Cotton candy hair, fine Cottony Dandelion fuzz Down Gummy Horsetail coarse Moldy hay Short-cropped and stiff Soft and lush Soft curls and waves Yellow straw

Descriptive Hair Color Words & Phrases

Coal Crows wing Ebony Jet Indian Ink Midnight Obsidian Onyx Raven

Grays and Whites

Battleship gray, dull gray Blue dandelion fuzz Blue rinse gray Faded glory Flint Grizzled (gray) Gunmetal Maltese gray (blue gray) Mineral Mousy (gray) Pewter Salt and Pepper Shale Silver cloud Smoke Snowy white Swan’s wing Steel Wood ashes

Amber (reddish) Ash brown Auburn (reddish) Baked Clay Bison Brunette Burnished Camel Caramel Chestnut Cinnamon Clove Dark beer Dark Earth Dark toffee Dirt Fudge cycle Glazed ginger Maple Sugar Mink Mousy Muddy Nutmeg Pecan Rawhide, dark reddish Root beer Russet Tobacco Tortoise Shell Walnut

Auburn Berry Brassy Brightest Burgundy Burnished copper Carrot top Cinnabar Clown wig red Cognac Dull brick Flame Garish brass Orange Russet Scarlet Strawberry Wine

Professional Hair Color Descriptions

Ash blond -- Lacks red or gold highlights (verges on green tones); light mousy blond, medium and dark blond, dishwater, beige

Ash brown -- Browns lacking warm/red tones tones; light mousy brown, medium and dark brown

Black -- Different shades of black vary according to the amount of highlighting or pigmentation shadings present in the hair; black lacking all highlighting will be duller, ash shade; black containing a lot of red may appear as deep burgundy

Red -- Warm shades; berry, russet, strawberry (red-blonde), rusty orange, wine, carrot top, etc.

Towhead -- Whitish blond; usually an ash blond lacking warm tones but not always

Warm blond -- Blond with touch of gold and red; whiskey, wheat, honey, strawberry, brassy, golden etc.

Warm brown -- Brunette, dark or light brown that contains red or gold tones; varies from light to nearly black; reddish brown, chestnut, dark amber, auburn etc.

Hair Styles Modern And Historical

It’s impossible to name all the hairstyles but the selection here should be a good start. Many listed here also are known by other names.

[See of some these hairstyles here .]

Afro -- Unisex style borrowed from the African Americans; short and very curly, forming a bowl shaped profile; a pick is used to pull the hair away from the head and shape it

Asymmetric -- Hair is cut long on side of the head and short on the other.

Bedhead -- Popularized in 1990s by starlet Meg Ryan; short to mid-length shaggy cut worn jelled or moussed in tossed fashion

Beehive -- A 60’s French twist coiled at the back of the head and rising above it to form a cone shape (see upsweep)

Bob -- Introduced in 1915 this short cropped hair style was popular during the 1920’s; also called the shingle bob, the shingle, the Eaton crop. It is often cropped at the jawline and aligned close to the face.

Bouffant -- Puffy hair style’ hair is backcombed or ratted then barely smoothed, resulting in a bubble affect

Bowl -- Most commonly worn by young boys. The bang area cut straight cross the forehead as if measured by turning a bowl upside down on the head. The top layers are longer and cut along the this bowl line around the head.

Braid -- Plaited hair

Bubble -- 60’s hairstyle, short to mid-length, ratted/backcombed to appear like a football helmet or bubble surrounding the head

Butch/flattop/crewcut -- A man’s style; usually cut with electric shears; very short and stands on end at the front of the head and his shaved close to the head on the sides; sometimes called a GI cut.

Buzz - Modern slang for a hair shaved close to the head

Chignon -- Bun, usually at the nape or top of head; topknot

Conk -- African American textured hair that is straightened

Cornrows -- Small tightly braided rows of hair that hug the scalp; most often worn by African Americans

Duck tail -- 50’s style worn by girls and boys alike; hair on either side of nape combed toward the center of the head; reminiscent of Elvis Presley, Fabian, Doris Day, Debbie Reynolds etc.

Farraha Fawcett -- Long layered hair flipped or feathered back off the face with a bang that feathers or rolls off the face as well; made popular by the TV star of the same name; late 70’s and early 80’s

Finger waved -- Usually short haircut in which a stylist uses lotion and her fingers to create deep waves that circle the head. Popular in the 1920s and 30s.

Flip -- Feminine hair style of the 50’s and 60’s; long hair usually shoulder length turned up at the ends, sometimes in a roll.

Fontange -- Worn 1690’s to 1710; a towering fountain of frills and complex, lacy intertwining shaped around a wire frame and considered the height of fashion; nicknamed by disdaining men, the “tower and the comet”

French twist/seam -- Hair swept back from both sides the head (front to back) and rolled down the center of the head into a roll or tucked to make a seam

Fringe -- Curly bangs worn in the 1880’s; in 1900’s worn straight; alternate name for bangs

Kiss curls -- Seen immediately after Civil War; ringlets of curls on the cheeks or forehead

London Cut -- Short female cut popular during the 1960s and early 70s. The hair was cut over the ears, leaving a fringe in front of the ears, often brushed toward the face or straight down. The nape hair was cut along the hairline like a boys but more rounded instead of squared off like a man’s neckline.

Mohawk -- Shaved head with a strip of hair growth down the center of the head from forehead to the nape

Pads -- Late 1830’s long coiled curls over the ears (looked like ear muffs); at the back of the head they were called a Grecian knot or psyche knot

Pageboy -- Introduced in late 1930s early 40’s; long, hair turned under, usually just touching the shoulders

Pigtails -- Same as pony tail only the hair is parted down middle and each section is cinched into its own tail above or below the ear

Pixie -- Female short cut; feathered around profile of face and onto cheek, short at the nape line; usually with full bang and combed forward onto face; also called an Italian cut; permed version called a poodle cut

Pompadour -- Style of wearing the hair high over the forehead usually in some type of rolled affect; in 1940’s women used rats (nylon mash) to roll the hair off the forehead and puff it; a version of this also worn during the 1700’s and early 1800’s by most and women; name comes from a lady of this era called Madame Pompadour

Ponytail -- Hair gathered together and cinched with a rubber band or barrette to make a tail at the back of the head; worn high or low; worn low it’s sometimes called a George (referring to George Washington) or a Paul Revere

Poodle cut -- Short, curly haircut

Powdered hair/wigs -- Unisex style worn from about 1760’s to 1820; after 1740 men were wearing shorter, simpler wigs and began to powder their own hair

Punk -- Usually short on top and styled with lotion to stand up off the head; often a mohawk fashion from forehead to nape; sometimes dyed bright neon colors of pink, purple, blue, orange etc.

Queue -- Pigtail, esp. that of a Chinese. (Chinese queue was braided) Men of Colonial America wore these as well, usually tied back with a ribbon and in some cases men wore a periwig styled with a queue

Roach -- Hair brushed into a roll

Sausage curl -- Long tube-like coils of hair; popular in early 1800’s; in the early 1970’s these were piled on top of the head in a cluster, esp. for formal dress for teens.

Shag -- Like a pixie, only long at the nape. Lengths vary from short to long layered cut; popular during the early 70’s

Skin heads -- Group of radical racist youths, men and women alike, who shaved their heads

Spaniel’s curls -- Late 1840’s into the 50’s; long thick curls worn by the ear (as worn by Elizabeth Barrette Browning)

Spit curls -- First seen in 1831; flat curls on women in front of the ear

Tonsure -- Shaven part of a monk or cleric’s head

Updo/upsweep -- Generic term for long hair styled high on top of head; hair might petaled (layered curls), barrel curled, arranged in a chignon, backcombed into a beehive or styled in French roll etc.

Wedge cut -- Also called Dorothy Hamill cut; short cut worn mostly by women; sides feathered off the face, back cut longer from the drown to the occipital bone, where its layered into a wedge; nape is trimmed close the head and short; a late ‘70’s and early 80’s style.

Sharla has published three historical romances and her fourth, How to Fell a Timberman, is impatiently waiting to be formatted for Kindle.

When she’s not writing and researching ways to bedevil her book characters, Sharla enjoys collecting authentically costumed dolls from all over the world, traveling (to seek more dolls!), and reading tons of books. You can find Sharla here at Writers In The Storm, on Twitter at @SharlaWrites or on Facebook .

25 comments on “Writing About Hair: The Thick and Thin of Descriptions”

Thanks for sharing this wonderful list, along with the great pic!

Thank "you" for dropping by Erin.

Sharla, once more I must say ... you are amazing. How in the world do you do this ?? Reading your posts is like having our own personal writing coach. Each element of each writing technique in such amazing detail, that I need a workbook for your posts only.

Thanks ... everything I ever wanted to know about hair 🙂

Thanks for such a great compliment! Glad you enjoy my lists.

Goodie, another list of descriptions to add to my personal long list. Thanks so much for posting this - you save all of us a lot of long hours researching those perfect terms/descriptions for our manuscripts. Always, V

Glad you like the list Virgina. I wasn't kidding when I said I could only post a section of my hair list. But I figured you guys would be most interested in this one. 🙂

You've done it again, Sharla. The descriptive range you provide for such everyday characteristics is beyond impressive. Thanks.

Wow, you just made my top of the list for awesome. Thank you for all the work, and sharing.

Thank you ladies for stopping by. I'm happy to share. That's the best thing about being a romance writer. We share. 🙂

Wow! I'll never look at hair the same again.

Thanks Janie and thanks for stopping by WITS today.

Sharla, Thanks for the detailed description of HAIR that all writers can use in their stories.

what a helpful library you've created for hair. thank you

Thanks for posting such a useful resource! I made my own reference table, leaving a space for blonde and bald 🙂

My characters will never have a "bad hair day again!" Unless it furthers my plot, of course. 🙂

Thanks for taking so much time to compile these lists for us. It's so appreciated.

You are all welcome ladies. Now I wonder if I should tell my daughter, I used her punk hair style for my blog today. 🙂

What a great collection of facts! Thanks, Sharla! One of my characters, a Las Vegas showgirl, wears her hair in a "bob." Now I know what to call it.

Thanks for opening up your magic notebook, Sharla. I tend to get in a rut with hair and eye descriptions.

Thank you, wonderful descriptions. In Australia we also have (or had, it's a bit retro), a men's style called "short back and sides", like a crew cut but not as short. It was a conservative style that was the socially acceptable opposite of long hippy hair in the nineteen sixties. Hair styles carry a strong social message.

I love this regional information. Every country is different and sometimes even states here in the US. Thanks for sharing.

Very informative and fun, Sharla! I write stories set in the 15th century, and you included descriptions that I can use, also. Thanks for sharing!

Thanks. I write American historicals so I wanted to include styles from the past. Also I think sometimes it's fun to refer to old styles even for contemporary stories as they make great descriptions themselves.

This will save time I would have spent googling--thank you!

Your welcome Toni. You can find pictures of many hairstyles at the link I included above if that helps.

I must admit I only skimmed this, but I pinned it. It's an excellent resource. Thank you!

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How to Describe Eyes in Writing (21 Best Tips + Examples)

Eyes are often hailed as the “windows to the soul,” capable of conveying complex emotions without uttering a single word.

As writers, mastering the art of describing eyes can elevate your storytelling.

Here is how to describe eyes in writing:

Describe eyes in writing by focusing on color, shape, and emotional depth. Use descriptive words like “captivating” or “luminous.” Phrases like “windows to the soul” add layers. Consider eyelids, lashes, and blinking for subtle emotional cues.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about how to describe eyes in writing.

1. The Color Palette: More Than Just Blue and Brown

Close up of a colorful eye - How to Describe Eyes in Writing

Table of Contents

Color is usually the first attribute that comes to mind when describing eyes.

Going beyond the cliché blue and brown can bring your characters to life in vivid detail.

Try unconventional colors and make comparisons to set a mood.

For example, instead of saying, “She had green eyes,” you might say, “Her eyes were the color of freshly mown grass, evoking an undeniable feeling of rebirth.”

Different colors can invoke various emotions or suggest specific character traits.

“Eyes as gray as a stormy sea” could symbolize a tumultuous spirit or an adventurous soul.

Therefore, use colors not just as factual descriptions but as emotional or character-driven statements.

You can even mix colors for added depth, “His eyes were a mix of gold and brown, like a forest floor dappled in autumn sunlight.”

2. The Light Dance: Luminosity Unveiled

The way eyes catch light can describe more than just the setting sun or dim room.

It can tell your reader about the emotional landscape of your characters.

For example, eyes that “gleam like polished stones catching the midday sun” could portray a character in a state of clarity or revelation.

The luminosity of the eyes can also serve as a narrative device, enhancing the emotional undercurrents of a scene.

“Her eyes dimmed, mirroring the dwindling campfire, as she heard the sad tale” can infuse additional layers of emotion into the situation.

This can help the reader feel the gravity of the story along with the character.

3. Shape-Shifting: The Geometry of Gaze

The shape of a character’s eyes can be a playground for creativity.

From almond-shaped to round, the geometry of eyes can offer readers clues about a character’s disposition.

For instance, “Her oval eyes always had a dreamy look, as if she were perpetually lost in thought” can say a lot about the character’s daydreaming nature or thoughtful demeanor.

Don’t forget that eye shape can be dynamic, changing with emotional states or circumstances.

You might describe a normally cheerful character as having “eyes that narrowed into cold slivers when he heard the disparaging comment.”

This not only gives your characters depth but also builds a stronger emotional connection with the reader.

4. Blink Back the Emotions

Never underestimate the power of a blink in conveying emotional subtlety.

A quick blink can express surprise.

While slow, measured blinks could imply a character is deeply contemplating a decision.

For example, “She blinked rapidly, as if trying to ward off the tears that threatened to spill,” succinctly captures a moment of emotional vulnerability.

A single blink can also serve as a pivotal moment in the story.

“He blinked once, slowly, as if imprinting the scene onto his soul” not only adds emotional weight but also signals a significant moment.

5. Mirrors and Windows: Emotional Portals

Eyes can act as mirrors reflecting internal emotions or windows offering a glimpse into the soul.

A character’s gaze can speak volumes, revealing underlying feelings or thoughts.

“His eyes were impenetrable mirrors, reflecting nothing but deflecting everything,” suggests a stoic or guarded individual.

In contrast, eyes can serve as open windows, giving readers insight into a character’s emotional state.

“Her eyes were open windows to her joy, sparkling like stars on a clear night,” indirectly reveals the depth of her happiness.

Using this technique can convey complex emotions in a show-don’t-tell fashion.

6. Crinkles and Lines: The Etchings of Experience

The skin surrounding the eyes can be a treasure trove of storytelling.

Whether it’s laugh lines or weary creases, these “etchings” can reveal a character’s history or emotional state.

For example, “Her eyes were framed by lines that spoke of decades filled with laughter and resilience” provides a wealth of information about a character’s life experiences.

On the flip side, you can use the absence of these lines to highlight a different set of experiences or qualities.

“His eyes were alarmingly smooth, devoid of the wrinkles that often accompany age, as if time itself hesitated to mark him.”

This could signify a range of possibilities—from a sheltered life to a mysterious, age-defying character.

7. The Focus Factor: Where the Gaze Lands

Where a character focuses their eyes can indicate interest, discomfort, or even deceit.

“She couldn’t maintain eye contact and her gaze kept drifting to the floor,” could suggest a lack of confidence or that she’s hiding something.

Here’s another example: “His eyes locked onto the painting, absorbing every brushstroke as if trying to capture its essence.”

The focus of the gaze is telling of the character’s artistic interest.

Or perhaps a deeper emotional connection to the artwork.

Employ focus intentionally to add another layer of complexity to your characters.

8. The Invisible Force: Magnetic Attraction or Repulsion

Sometimes eyes don’t just look; they draw in or push away.

Describing this invisible force can add an ethereal quality to your characters.

“Her eyes seemed to pull him in, a gravitational force he couldn’t resist,” not only describes attraction but also gives it a nearly magical, irresistible quality.

Alternatively, eyes can repel, emitting an almost palpable energy that keeps people at bay.

“People avoided looking into his eyes, as if a simple glance could cast a dark shadow over their day.”

This can set the mood quickly and establish a character as menacing or tragically solitary.

9. Eye-talk: Silent Conversations

Eyes can often communicate messages that words fail to capture.

Describing these “silent conversations” can create emotionally charged scenes between characters.

For instance, “Their eyes met, and in that brief moment, a flurry of unspoken apologies and forgiveness exchanged.”

In a more humorous scenario, you might write, “A roll of her eyes spoke louder than words, a whole paragraph on why the joke was painfully unfunny.”

Use eye-talk to demonstrate the depth of understanding or the lack thereof between characters.

By doing so, you enrichen the personal dynamics in your story.

10. Motion and Emotion: The Kinetics of Eye Movement

The movement of eyes—darting, sweeping, flicking—can indicate a variety of emotions or thoughts.

“Her eyes darted around the room, like a hummingbird seeking nectar, but finding none,” could indicate anxiety or a feeling trapped.

Movement can also be slow and calculated: “His eyes slowly scanned the crowd until they landed on her. It was as though he had found what he was unconsciously searching for all evening.”

Here, the eyes act almost like a compass, guided by emotion or instinct to find a person in a crowd.

11. Veils and Shields: The Role of Eyelids and Lashes

Eyelids and eyelashes do more than just frame the eyes.

They act as veils or shields, expressing vulnerability or defense.

For example, “Her eyelashes were a curtain that she dropped quickly, hiding the turmoil that had briefly flickered in her eyes,” could indicate a momentary lapse in an otherwise strong facade.

On the other hand, “His eyelids lifted slowly, as if reluctantly allowing access to the secrets hidden in his gaze,” paints a vivid image of a guarded individual.

With eyelids acting as gatekeepers and eyelashes as intricate curtains, your description gains a theatrical quality.

12. Icy Stares and Fiery Glances: Temperature Imagery

Using temperature as imagery can add another layer of emotional context.

“Her gaze was icy, freezing everyone it touched, making even a crowded room feel lonely,” effectively conveys detachment and emotional coldness.

Alternatively, “His eyes burned with a fire that could ignite even the most dampened spirits,” suggests passion.

By assigning a “temperature” to your characters’ eyes, you’re doing more than describing.

You’re setting the emotional climate of your story.

13. Twin Moons: Symmetry and Asymmetry

Our eyes are often assumed to be symmetrical.

But describing a character with slightly asymmetrical eyes can add an interesting twist.

“Her right eye was noticeably larger than her left, as if it had seen more of the world and expanded with wisdom,” can introduce an element of uniqueness and intrigue.

Conversely, perfect symmetry can be used to highlight otherworldly beauty or artificiality.

“His eyes were symmetrically perfect, each a mirror image of the other, making him appear almost too flawless, like a sculpture.”

14. Distance and Depth: Proximity of Emotional Connection

The physical space between eyes can symbolize emotional distance or closeness.

“Her closely set eyes, like parallel lines that never meet, made it hard to decipher her emotions,” suggests a character who might be emotionally inaccessible.

On the flip side, consider: “His wide-set eyes seemed to embrace the world, absorbing its myriad colors and nuances.”

This description could indicate a more open, emotionally available individual.

The space between eyes can become a metaphorical playground for writers.

15. Transient Hues: Changing Colors

Some eyes change colors depending on the lighting or the character’s mood.

Describing this can add a mystical or unpredictable quality.

“Her eyes shifted from a deep blue to an oceanic green when she was lost in thought,” opens up a realm of questions and adds an element of unpredictability to the character.

Or you might write, “As he grew angrier, the brown of his eyes seemed to darken, like clouds gathering before a storm.”

Changing colors can make your character seem complex and intriguing, demanding the reader’s attention.

16. Windows or Walls: Transparency and Opacity

The eyes can be either transparent windows to the soul or impenetrable walls.

For example, “Looking into her eyes was like staring into a clear pond, where even the smallest pebble on the bottom was visible,” indicates transparency and vulnerability.

Contrastingly, “His eyes were like tinted windows—no matter how hard you looked, you couldn’t see inside.”

The latter communicates a sense of emotional fortification.

Transparency and opacity serve as tools to indicate how approachable or aloof a character is as a person.

17. Spotlighting: Single Eye Focus

Most descriptions involve both eyes, but focusing on just one can create an arresting image.

“Her left eye seemed to flicker with an inner light, commanding attention and distracting from her otherwise placid face,” can indicate a multifaceted character with hidden depths or asymmetrical qualities.

Or perhaps, “His right eye twitched involuntarily, belying the calm he otherwise projected.”

A focus on a single eye can serve to amplify emotion, make a character more memorable, or highlight an incongruity in their personality.

18. Eye Accessories: Glasses and Contacts

Glasses or contact lenses can be more than just functional.

They can offer insights into a character.

“Her thick glasses magnified her eyes to an impossible size, giving her an air of constant astonishment,” shows how glasses can be used to amplify a character trait.

Accessories become an extension of the character, revealing their choices, desires, or insecurities.

19. A Picture Is Worth a Thousand Words: Artistic Imagery

Sometimes, describing eyes as artworks can be exceptionally evocative.

“Her eyes were like a Jackson Pollock painting, a chaotic blend of colors that somehow made sense,” can indicate a complex and unpredictable character.

Or perhaps, “His eyes resembled a Van Gogh sky, swirling with depth and endless hues of blue and yellow.”

Artistic comparisons not only make the description more vivid.

But can also provide an intellectual backdrop to your character’s emotional landscape.

20. The Art of Avoidance: When Eyes Are Hidden

There can be significant impact in moments where a character’s eyes are hidden—by hair, a hat, or even their own hand.

“His eyes were obscured by a mess of unruly hair, as if he was deliberately hiding from the world,” can suggest a character who is emotionally unavailable or in a state of internal chaos.

Conversely, “She covered her eyes with a hand, as if blocking out the reality before her,” could indicate denial.

Or, perhaps, a reluctance to face the truth.

The absence or obstruction of eyes can speak volumes, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative.

21. The Blink Code: The Tempo of Eye Movement

The rhythm and tempo of blinking can subtly express a character’s emotional state or intentions.

Rapid blinking might reveal nervousness, excitement, or distress.

Slow, deliberate blinks could convey thoughtfulness or calm.

The blink can be as revealing as any other aspect of eye description, acting as a silent Morse code that conveys underlying emotional states.

For example, “Her eyelids shut tightly and reopened slowly, as though she was steeling herself for what was to come. Each blink seemed to be a word in a private language of courage.”

Here is a good video about how to describe eyes in writing:

10 Elements of Eyes to Describe in Writing

To summarize, here are 10 elements (or traits) of eyes that you can describe:

Color : The most obvious characteristic, but it can say a lot about a character. Blues, browns, greens, and grays each have their own set of associated traits and emotions.
Shape : The shape of the eyes can lend personality cues. Almond-shaped, round, or narrow eyes can make a character seem mysterious, innocent, or intense.
Size : Describing the size of the eyes can also give hints about a character’s personality. Large eyes might convey innocence or openness, while small eyes could suggest cunning or secrecy.
Luminosity/Brightness : How bright or dull the eyes appear can reflect the character’s emotional state or overall personality. Luminous eyes might signify vitality or a strong spirit.
Transparency : This refers to how “readable” the eyes are. Are they the proverbial “window to the soul,” or are they more like impenetrable walls?
Intensity : The power of a gaze can say a lot. An intense stare may show determination, while a lack of intensity could signal disinterest or fatigue.
Texture : While not immediately visible from a distance, up close the eyes may have specks, flecks, or distinct patterns that could add uniqueness to a character.
Direction : Where a character is looking—averting their gaze, staring straight ahead, or looking down—can show their emotional state and add context to dialogue and actions.
Movement : This includes blinking, winking, or any other eye movements. Rapid blinking might indicate stress, while slow blinking could indicate thoughtfulness or calm.
Surrounding Features : Eyebrows, eyelashes, and even the skin around the eyes can contribute to the overall impression. Bushy eyebrows, long lashes, or dark circles can add depth to your description.

30 Best Words to Describe Eyes in Writing

Here is a list of words to help you describe eyes in your stories:

Melancholic
Almond-shaped
Calculating

30 Best Phrases to Describe Eyes in Writing

When a single word won’t do, you’ll need phrases for describing eyes.

Check out this curated list of phrases for how to describe eyes in writing:

Eyes like saucers
Windows to the soul
A storm brewing in his eyes
Eyes bright with unshed tears
A twinkle in her eye
Eyes darker than midnight
Eyes that held galaxies
Deep pools of emotion
Eyes like open books
Eyes narrowed in suspicion
Eyes as cold as ice
An unreadable gaze
Pools of molten gold
A piercing gaze
Eyes dancing with mischief
Eyes filled with wonder
A guarded look
Eyes aflame with passion
A faraway look
An inviting gaze
Eyes shimmering like the ocean
A gaze that could cut glass
Eyes soft with compassion
A lingering look
A flirtatious glance
Eyes clouded with doubt
Eyes gleaming with intelligence
An intense stare
Eyes that defy description
Eyes closed in contemplation

3 Full Examples of Describing Eyes in Different Genres

Let’s learn how to describe eyes in writing by looking at full examples in various fiction genres.

In the dimly lit room, his eyes caught hers, and it felt as though time stood still.

They were deep pools of chocolate, rich and warm, promising sweet secrets and hidden depths. A soft light seemed to emanate from them, casting a gentle glow that could melt the iciest of hearts. It was as though his soul was laid bare, and she felt herself drawn into his gaze, an irresistible force pulling her closer to the love she’d been seeking all her life.

As she walked through the enchanted forest, her eyes changed to mirror her surroundings.

Normally a plain brown, they turned into a swirling mix of emerald and gold, as if her irises were tiny galaxies with stars twinkling within. The transformation was spellbinding, making her appear not just of this realm, but a creature of otherworldly beauty.

Those eyes held power—power to unlock realms and unleash spells, a mysterious allure that could not be ignored.

His eyes were like shards of ice, a piercing blue that seemed to cut through the dim light of the interrogation room.

Each glance was calculated, devoid of emotion, revealing nothing yet seeing everything. It was a look that had unnerved many—a gaze that had stared down threats and seen horrors that would break most men.

His eyes were the epitome of a human lie detector, missing nothing, ever vigilant, and deeply unsettling.

Final Thoughts: How To Describe Eyes in Writing

The best way to describe eyes is blending the tips, words, and phrases.

Also, connect the bigger plot and theme to your eye descriptions.

Of course, there is much more than eyes to describe in your story. Read the other guides on our site to learn how to describe, people, places, and scenes in your story.

204 Words That Describe Colours – A Resource For Writers

This post includes interesting facts about colours and a selection of words writers can use to describe colours .

Writers use the five senses when they write. We are able to see, smell, hear, taste, and touch exactly what the characters in the story experience.

I have written about words that describe taste , touch , sound , and smell in previous posts.

One of the best ways to describe what we see is through colour and in this post, I have included words that describe colours.

Note: ‘colour’ is British spelling and ‘color’ is American spelling.

What Is Colour?

Collins Dictionary says: ‘The colour of something is the appearance that it has as a result of the way in which it reflects light.’

The visible spectrum of colour as we see it, consists of seven main colours:

But we can only see three of these visible colours: red, blue, green. These three colours are mixed in our brain to create all of the other colours we see.

Colour Affects Us

Colour affects our moods . For example, blue is calm, red is aggressive, pink suppresses anger and anxiety, bright yellow is the most irritating colour because of its excessive stimulation on the eye. Colours also affect consumers .

According to Sally Augustin in an article in Psychology Today , research has shown the “powers” of particular colours.

She writes about five colours:

“Green: Seeing the colour green has been linked to more creative thinking—so greens are good options for home offices, art studios, etc.
Red: People seeing others in front of red backgrounds generally find those other individuals are more attractive than when they see them silhouetted against other colours, so reds are great for a bedroom wall. Having a red surface in view also gives us a burst of strength, so reds are good choices for home gym areas, etc. Seeing red has been linked to impaired analytical reasoning, though, making it a bad option for offices.
Violet: People link a greyish violet with sophistication, so it can be a good selection for places where you’re trying to make the “right” impression.
Yellow: Using yellow in a home can be problematic. Many people dislike the colour, so if you have a lot of yellow rooms in your home or a yellow front door, you may be advised to repaint to get the best price for your home should you sell. An exception: Many people use yellow in kitchens—with no negative sales repercussions. Yellow may be accepted in kitchens because warm colours stimulate our appetite.
Blue: People are more likely to tell you that blue is their favourite colour than any other shade. That makes it a safe choice. Seeing blue also brings thoughts of trustworthiness to mind; always a good thing.”

Writing Tips

A character who lives in a colourful home is very different to one who lives in a monochromatic home. The use of colour can help you to show who the characters are.
A colour-blind character can add an interesting twist to a story.
A character with chromophobia has an irrational fear of colours. This can stop them from performing daily activities and can affect their lives.
A bleak, grey setting works well for a crime scene. A sepia-tinged setting works for memoirs. A vivid setting works well for romance. Use colours to set the mood for your books.

204 Words That Describe Colours

General colour-related words.

ablaze – bright and full of light or colour
a riot of [colour] – a lot of different bright colours together
bleached – made very pale by chemicals or strong sunlight
bleak – gloomy; sombre
blotchy – discoloured, patchy
bold – very bright, clear, or strong in colour and therefore easy to notice
brash – big, bright, or colourful in a way that is not attractive
bright – strong but not dark
brilliant – vivid, intense
chintzy – too colourful and in poor taste
clean – light and fresh
cold – colours such as white, blue, and grey that make you think of things that are cold
colour-coded – marked with different colours to make it easy to see different features or uses
colourful – has bright colours or a lot of different colours
cool – cool colours, such as white and blue, give an idea of cold instead of heat. Colours with blue or green in them are called cool colours
dappled – covered with or forming areas of lighter and darker colour or light and shadow
dark – strong and not pale in colour
deep – dark and strong
delicate – pleasant and not too strong
discoloured – changed in colour and no longer looks new, clean, or healthy
dusty – used for describing a colour that is not bright because it has some grey in it
electric – bright, metallic
fast – colours that are fast will not become paler when clothes are washed
festive – bright and colourful in a way that makes you think of a celebration
fiery – very bright in colour, especially bright red, orange, or yellow
flamboyant – brightly coloured or decorated
flaming – brightly coloured red, orange, or yellow
fluorescent – very bright and seems to reflect light
fresh – clean colours
gay – brightly-coloured or attractive
glistening – sparkling or shining like glitter
glittering – shining; sparkling
glowing – glowing colours are bright and look warm
harmonious – harmonious colours or parts combine well with each other
harsh – very bright
iridescent – showing changing colours in different types of light
jazzy – bright, colourful, and attractive
loud – very bright in a way that does not show good taste
matching – with the same colour, pattern, or design
medium – neither light nor dark in colour
mellow – soft and warm in colour
multicoloured – consisting of several different colours
opalescent – seems always to be changing colour slightly
pastel – having a pale soft colour
prismatic – multi-coloured, brilliant, bright
psychedelic – brightly coloured and have big unusual patterns
pure – a pure colour is very clear and beautiful
restrained – not too bright in colour, or not decorated too much
rich – strong in a pleasant way
sepia – sepia photographs are old and are a red-brown colour
showy – brightly coloured and attractive
soft – pale, gentle and pleasant to look at
sombre – dark in colour, especially grey or black
splashy – brightly coloured
tinged – something that is tinged with a colour, feeling, or quality contains a small amount of it
tinted – containing a small amount of a particular colour
two-tone – two-tone shoes or clothes have two colours
vibrant – bright and colourful
violent – very bright and almost painful to look at
vivid – a vivid colour is strong and bright
warm – warm colours have red, orange, or yellow in them.
watery – pale

Words That Describe A Lack Of Colour

colourless – dull or lacking in colour
dotted – a series of small spots or marks
faded – less bright
flecked – having a spot or small patch of colour
light – lacking brightness or saturation
monochromatic – having one colour
monotone – all one colour
muted – subdued or softened colours
neutral – having very little colour
opaque – incapable of allowing light to pass through
pale – something light in colour or washed out
primary – basic colour
rustic – plain; simple
tinged – a small amount of colour
tinted – slightly coloured
translucent – allowing light to pass through
transparent – clear; see-through
watery – containing too much water; diluted

Words That Describe Specific Colours

alabaster – very white and smooth.
amber – between brown and yellow in colour.
amethyst – light purple.
apricot – a shade of pink tinged with yellow
avocado – with a pale green colour.
ash – the colour of ash
azure – bright blue.
baby-blue – light blue in colour.
beige – very pale brown in colour
black – having the darkest colour, like the sky at night when there is no light
blue – something that is blue is the same colour as the sky on a clear sunny day.
bluish – similar to blue or slightly blue in colour
bone – a shade of white the colour of a bleached skeleton
bottle green – very dark green
bronze – an attractive brown colour
brown – something that is brown is the same colour as wood or coffee
brownish – similar to brown or slightly brown in colour
burgundy – dark red
canary – having the colour of a canary; of a light to moderate yellow
caramel – light yellowish-brown in colour
cerise – bright red-pink in colour
chalk – a pure flat white
charcoal – something that is charcoal is dark grey in colour
chartreuse – bright green-yellow in colour
cherry – a red the colour of ripe cherries
cinnamon – light red-brown in colour
claret – dark red in colour
cobalt blue – a shade of blue tinged with green
copper – red-brown in colour
coral – with a colour between pink and orange
cream – yellowish-white in colour
crimson – dark purple-red in colour
Day-Glo – extremely bright yellow, orange, pink, or green in colour
dove-grey – light grey in colour
dun – between brown and grey in colour
ebony – dark black in colour
ecru – very pale brown
eggshell – like an eggshell, for example white-yellow in colour, not very shiny, or thin and delicate
electric blue – very bright blue
emerald – bright green in colour
fawn – light brown in colour
flesh-coloured – the colour of white people’s skin
gold – something that is gold is the colour of gold
golden – bright yellow in colour
green – something that is green is the same colour as grass.
greenish – similar to green or slightly green in colour
greige – between very pale brown and grey in colour
grey – between black and white in colour (gray – the American spelling of grey)
hazel – light brown and slightly green or golden in colour, used especially for describing someone’s eyes
ice blue – a very light blue colour
indigo – between dark blue and purple in colour
inky – mainly literary black, or a very dark colour
iron-grey – dark grey in colour
ivory – something that is ivory is a yellowish-white colour
jet-black – very shiny and black in colour
lavender – light purple in colour
leaden – dull and dark grey in colour
lilac – pale purple in colour
lily-white – pure white
lime-green – bright yellow-green in colour
livid – mainly literary dark purple or blue-grey in colour
magenta – purple-red in colour
maroon – dark red-brown in colour
mauve – pale purple in colour
milk-white – the colour of milk
milky – the colour of milk
navy blue – very dark blue
nut-brown – medium brown in colour
off-white – slightly yellow or grey
olive – dark yellowish green in colour
olive – dark grey-green in colour, like many military uniforms
orange – between red and yellow in colour
orangey – similar to orange or slightly orange in colour
peach – yellowish pink in colour
peacock blue – dark blue-green in colour
pea green – bright green in colour
pink – between red and white in colour
pinkish – similar to pink or slightly pink in colour
pitch-black – completely black or dark
plum – between red and purple in colour
puce – between dark brown or dark red and purple
purple – between red and blue in colour
purplish – similar to purple or slightly purple in colour
red – the same colour as blood
reddish – similar to red, or slightly red
rose – dark pink in colour
roseate – pink in colour
rose-coloured – pink in colour
rosy – pink in colour
royal blue – deep blue
ruby – a deep red colour
ruddy – red in colour
russet – red-brown in colour
rusty – red-brown in colour
saffron – between bright yellow and orange in colour
salmon – orange tinged with pink
sandy – pale yellow in colour
scarlet – bright red in colour
sea-green – green-blue in colour
sepia – something that is sepia is a red-brown colour
shocking pink – very bright pink in colour
silver – light grey in colour
silvery – like silver in colour or appearance
sky-blue – the colour of the sky on a bright clear day
smoky – light grey in colour
snow-white – very white
sooty – black or dusky in colour
steely – steely blue is grey-blue in colour
straw-coloured – pale brown-yellow in colour
tan – light brown in colour
taupe – a brown-grey colour
tawny – between yellow and brown in colour
teal – between blue and green in colour
terracotta – brown-red in colour
turquoise – bright green-blue in colour
ultramarine – very bright blue in colour
umber – yellow or reddish brown in colour
vermilion – bright red or red-orange in colour
violet a- blue-purple in colour
white – something that is white is the same colour as milk or snow
whitish – similar to white or slightly white in colour
wine – something that is wine is a dark red colour
yellow a- something that is yellow is the same colour as the middle of an egg
yellowish – similar to yellow or slightly yellow in colour

Top Tip : Find out more about our workbooks and online courses in our shop .

If you enjoyed this post, read:

20 Fun Ways To Find An Idea For A Plot
Where Should You Begin Your Memoir?
Use These 7 Gaslighting Phrases To Make Your Antagonist More Manipulative
75 Words That Describe Smells
106 Ways To Describe Sounds
20 Words Used To Describe Specific Tastes And Flavours
209 Words To Describe Touch
Three Simple Ways To Show And Not Tell
12 Crucial Things To Remember About Setting

Sources: https://grammar.yourdictionary.com/grammar/word-lists/list-of-words-to-describe-colors.html https://www.macmillandictionary.com/thesaurus-category/british/words-used-to-describe-specific-colours https://www.macmillandictionary.com/thesaurus-category/british/general-words-used-to-describe-colours

Description , Show Don't Tell , Writing Resource , Writing Tips from Amanda Patterson

2 thoughts on “204 Words That Describe Colours – A Resource For Writers”

Great post, I especially loved the idea you mentioned of a colour blind character, something I never considered before – that would make an interesting disability to write about. The one thing I’d be afraid of is getting too carried away with colours and mentioning something that would pull the reader out of the book, wondering ‘What color is that?’

Thank you, Barry. Let us know if you write about a colour-blind character. We agree that adding too much colour would be a bad thing.

Comments are closed.

Writers After Dark

—Life Through the Eyes of Storytellers—

Using Body Language in Your Novel, Part Two—Eyes, Pupils, & Eyebrows

They say that our eyes are the “windows to the soul.” Isn’t that sweet? Yes, yes it is. Which is why this would be a fantastic place to practice some poetry, but instead, how about we exploit this little tidbit to benefit our writerly lives? Let’s explore the eyes—in the art of using body language in fiction.

It’s undeniable that our eyes are very special, but what exactly do we see when we stare into someone’s eyes? Information about their emotional state, that’s what. Can you imagine what damage this type of knowledge can do in the wrong hands? Oh boy!

For the villains, they can manipulate, hurt, and deceive. For the heroes, they can help, console, or protect. OR vice versa! Hey, it’s not mutually exclusive, and that’s the beauty. As the reader, you can get an insight on the emotional turmoil they’re all going through. And as the writer, well, you hold all the power, don’t you? But with great power comes great responsibility . . . err . . .

With all that power, don’t go crazy adding visual expressions every other paragraph. Save them to enhance crucial moments in your story.

Here are some body language “tells” to further enhance your characters’ emotions:

Part Two: The Eyes

“When the eyes say one thing, and the tongue another, a practiced man relies on the language of the first.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Categories:

* Aroused, Bedroom, or Doe Eyes . Sexual desire is a common cause of pupil dilation. So to indicate arousal in your character, go ahead and describe dilated pupils peeking through her lashes in the dim light. Or, you know . . . use your own wording. * Blinking Eyes . Use this when your character is nervous or troubled about something. When the blinking rate goes up, it indicates lying, stress, or sometimes arrogance. On the other hand, rapid blinking also flutters the eyelashes and can be a shy romantic expression. * Calculating Eyes . Described as eyes that move from side to side or looking down, use it to indicate your character is processing information or planning something—good for villains. It’s also much harder for a person to maintain eye contact while making calculations, so keep that in mind.

* Closing Eyes . When it’s for more than a second or two, this may indicate he’s lied to you, since this is a type of defense mechanism. But it can also be used by visual thinkers so they can better see the internal images without external distraction.

* Damp Eyes . This can be used to indicate anxiety, fear, sadness, suppressed weeping, exhaustion along with redness of the eyes, or if your character has been crying recently. * Darting Eyes . Have your character’s eyes dart back and forth or side to side to indicate insecurity or distraction. You can also use it to showcase your character being uncomfortable, and/or that he’s looking for an escape route. * Drooping Eyes . Described as a lack of eye blinking, or what we call a “blank stare” on the person’s face. Use it to indicate your character is bored or tired. “Dress it up” with your character glancing at her watch, yawning, or with a repetitive finger or foot tapping to drive it home!

* Friendly Twinkle . This can be used to put other people at ease—either readers, or one character to another to show positive interest. A friendly twinkle in a character can help break the ice, make a character like another or feel comfortable, appear to be a welcoming person, or give others a cue to their fascinating personality.

* Following Eyes . If your character is following someone around with her eyes, it can indicate she’s either interested in or scared of that person.

* Glancing . Use this to indicate your character’s desire, attraction, disapproval, or suspicion. Dress it up with a smile to suggest interest, or add in a frown to indicate suspiciousness and hostility.

* Gazing Eyes . Looking up and down at a whole person can be used to indicate your character is sizing them up, either as a potential threat or as a sexual partner.

* Shielded Eyes . Covering or shutting the eyes can indicate your character’s attempt to block out someone or something he doesn’t want to hear.

* Staring . This can be used to indicate your character’s interest, shock, disbelief, surprise, or aggression of something or someone.

* Squinting Eyes . This can be used to indicate discomfort, stress, an assessment of something or someone, uncertainty, tiredness, and even anger. If your character receives a squinted eye expression right after he says something, it could mean the person doubts his words, or disagrees with him. Squinting can also be used by a character who is lying so the other person can’t detect their deception.

* Looking Up . Have your character look upward to indicate she’s thinking, or that she’s bored or being judgmental.

* Looking Down . Have your character look down at someone as an act of power and domination. Or have them looking down but avoiding the other person as a sign of submission, or to indicate guilt.

* Looking Sideways . Looking to the left can indicate your character recalling a sound. Looking to the right can indicate that they are imagining the sound.

* Looking Down and to the Right . This can be used to indicate internal dialogue or emotions. If you had a character talking to himself, this would be his visual expression. In some cases, his eyes will also look down to his right if he’s going to lie.

* Looking Down and to the Left . This can be used to indicate recollection of smell, taste, or feeling. For example, if your character was abducted and she was asked to describe what she remembered about the place she was being held, her eyes would move in this direction.

* Looking Up and to the Right . This can be used to indicate recollection of images or the imaginative construction of something—in other words: lying. If she’s looking upward and to her right, she’s accessing her imagination and is making it up.

* Up and to the Left . Looking upward and to the left can indicate recalling a memory. If she’s describing something she’s seen, she’d look upward and to the left— truthfully accessing her memory.

Eye Contact:

Eye contact between two people is a powerful act of communication and may show interest, affection, or dominance.

* Prolonged Eye Contact . Use this to indicate your character might be lying. In trying to avoid looking shifty-eyed, some liars will purposefully hold their gaze a bit too long. They might also stand very still and unblinking.

* Limited Eye Contact . Use this to indicate your character is feeling insecure. Or, she might also be lying and trying to avoid the lie being detected.

This is the one part of the eye where we have no control. Dilation happens automatically since we have no conscious control over our pupils, and can be used to showcase your character’s true emotion, especially if they’re trying to hide it.

* Pupil Dilation . To indicate excitement, or when they’re around people they like or admire, have your character’s pupils dilate . It can help in showcasing a character’s loyalties. Pupils also dilate when it is darker to let in more light, so next time your character is in a dark room, like a club or dimly lit restaurant, you can describe your character’s eyes as dilated.

* Pupil Contraction . You can have your character’s pupils contract to indicate disgust, anger, irritation, annoyance, or when your character isn’t attracted to someone. Also, people with small pupils can appear threatening or just unfriendly, so use this tidbit to enhance a scene.

* In general, dilated pupils are positive while constricted pupils are negative.

* Lowered Eyebrows . This can be done with a lowered head, which can conceal the eyes. It can indicate deception, annoyance, and can be a sign of a dominant person.

* Raised Eyebrows . This can indicate surprise, cynicism, fear, discomfort, openness, and as a sign of attraction.

* Middle-pulled Eyebrows . Described as being pulled together. This can be used to indicate your character is angry, frustrated, or confused. It can also indicate intense concentration.

* Eyebrow “Flash.” Described as a quick repeated up-and-down movement. This can be used to indicate your character’s recognition and greeting of someone. (More effective for me: if they’re pretending they don’t know the person, but are betrayed by their eyebrows.)

So there you have it! Some extra details to use for your characters’ eyes and eyebrows. Be sure to come back in the next few weeks for more body language tips for your novel.

See Part One—Facial Expressions here.

Coming up next: posture, arms, shoulders, legs, and feet.

Published by S. Katherine Anthony

S.K. Anthony (Shanny) is a writer, a reader, and make-stuff-up-er who lives in New York. She is an award-winning author and a podcaster. When she isn’t busy with her toddler twins, S.K. finds herself being transported into the world of imagination. Well, either that or running away from spiders . . . she is convinced they are out to get her! View all posts by S. Katherine Anthony

22 thoughts on “Using Body Language in Your Novel, Part Two—Eyes, Pupils, & Eyebrows”

Great information. Thanks for sharing.

Like Liked by 1 person

Yay, Kphoenix! Glad you liked it! 🙂

Another helpful post! Thanks! 😉

There you are! I missed you this week lol I measure our posts by you, if you like them, then we can breathe lol. 😛 ❤

LOL! You guys are awesome! 😉

Playing catch-up this week. Had a cover reveal, then hid out in the writing cave. Word count was over 11K and I actually like about…six words. 😀 😀

There just isn’t enough coffee!

Enjoy the weekend!

Reblogged this on Felicia Denise, Author and commented: The eyes have it! 😉

As usual, you’re the best! Thanks for sharing, Felicia! 😘

[…] via Using Body Language in Your Novel, Part Two—Eyes, Pupils, […]

Fantastic post! Very helpful.

Hey! As my namesake, your opinion counts double lol Glad you found it helpful, and thanks for stopping by, Kat! 😉

This is great! I’ll keep it in mind, thanks!

Awesome! Glad you liked it! 😀

[…] Eyes (descriptions and meanings behind actions) […]

Thanks for this post! I had my looking up and to the right confused with my looking up and to the left as a ‘tell’ for lying…back to editing!!! 🙂

Yay! Glad I was able to help! Thanks for stopping by, Anne! 😀

[…] See Part Two—The Eyes here. […]

[…] See Part Two—Eyes, Pupils, & Eyebrows here. […]

Pupils are controlled by the autonomic nervous system. A good rule of thumb is a contraction of the eye is a sympathetic response and dilation is parasympathetic (sympathetic is activation of fight or flight, parasympathetic is deactivation) excellent description of how the eyes mirror the true inner thoughts. And in case anyone is wondering, sexual excitement is parasympathetic in nature. Also don’t forget the effects of drugs, someone on opiates will have constricted pupils so through that in on your opiate addicted super sleuth.

Exactly!!! Thanks for the extras. I had a long section on pupil dilation, but had to make the executive decision to cut it since the post was already long lol

Great way to summarize it, JT! 🙂

No problem sweetie, just my Healthcare knowledge slipping out.

Creative writing - The street lamps dimly lit the rain-soaked streets.........

Phil Dudson 5NB 5/9/2007

Unit 4: Coursework

Item 1: Continuous Writing

[Explore/Imagine/Entertain]

The street lamps dimly lit the rain-soaked streets of the small town in which I live. Terraced houses line each side of the narrow streets and the sound of raindrops on tiled roofs constantly drum in my ears. The streets are totally empty, not even the odd car or person breaks the monotony of the black tarmac. A rusty iron fence surrounds the small park by the houses and the play area is deserted and broken. The sky is dark and overcast, with the occasional roll of thunder rumbling in the distance.

By ten o’clock my shift at the local supermarket is over and I have to begin the long, mind-numbing walk home. The supermarket car park is covered in red, yellow and brown leaves from the old trees at the side of the road and I struggle across the slippery surface until I reach the dark subway that leads under the main road to the terraces. The subway walls are covered in graffiti while broken bottles and cigarette ends line the floor. I always feel slightly nervous when walking through this subway; its intimidating darkness makes me uneasy. Emerging from the subway I meet the usual dim glow of street lamps illuminating the small terraced houses that, to me, signified safety and protection.

“Empty your pockets!” shouted a gruff voice, as a man jumped out from the side of the subway exit, “Give me your money or I’ll kill you!”

This is a preview of the whole essay

There stood a tall, well built man, dressed in dark, ragged clothes in an aggressive stance with his fist raised and his other hand in his pocket. He wore a hooded top concealing most of his face, except his black rotting teeth and his stubble covered chin. His shoes had holes and there were cuts and scars on his face. He shivered and shook while the rain soaked him through as he pinned me against the wall.

“Please don’t hurt me,” I begged. “I’ve done nothing wrong.”

“I said empty your pockets!” repeated the man

“What do you want from me?” I asked nervously.

“If you don’t give me your money, I’ll…” he nodded his head towards his pocket, where my eyes met with the tip of a shining object that I presumed was a knife.

“Ok, just please don’t hurt me!”

By now I was petrified, so I nervously put my hands in my pockets and scrambled around for and loose change and then pulled everything out and dropped it on the floor. The man immediately bent down to pick up the coppers and chocolate bar that fell to the floor. He counted the change rapidly and put the chocolate in his pocket.

“What’s in your jacket?” the man shouted.

“N-n-n-nothing,” I stammered.

“Don’t lie!” he shouted, as his voice became more and more desperate. “Now take your jacket off and give it to me!”

I didn’t move.

“Give it to me!” the man screamed at the top of his voice as he tore off my jacket and turned it upside-down to empty it. My wallet, keys and mobile phone fell out and as the man bent down to pick them up I spied my chance to make a run for it. I hesitated to think of my escape route but this proved to be a huge mistake. As I tried to run, the man got a hold of my trailing foot and dragged me to the ground, my feeble body could not escape the grasp of the man. He stared down at me and then kicked me in the stomach to stop me getting the same idea of trying to escape again. Lying in a puddle, I watched him gather the phone and wallet; leaving the keys and throwing away the wallet once he had taken the £10 that was in there.

“This doesn’t look like nothing, does it?” he screamed with his face right next to mine, holding the crumpled note in front of my eyes. “Does it?”

“N-n-no” I managed to say.

“Get up!” he shouted angrily.

I scrambled to my feet, still holding my stomach to try to suppress the pain of being kicked.

“Yes?” I didn’t actually want to know what he wanted.

“I’ll see you again later.” He said it with an evil smile and chilling abruptness, and then he turned away and walked, with a limp, towards the subway. As the dark figure merged with the darkness, the thought of how long ‘later’ would be, and what he would do then, ran through my mind. During the confrontation, the rain had turned to hail without me realising, and the hail was stinging my cold, wet face. I was breathing heavily as I picked up my keys and torn coat, draping it over my head. I turned towards the street, still in a state of shock over what had happened and began to take nervous footsteps towards home.

Soon the nervous footsteps turned to a sprint when I had come to terms with what had just happened. The street and houses turned to a blur and somehow I just kept running, all the way to the entrance of my street, where I had to stop and coordinate myself in order to find my house. I reached in the pocket of my jacket to retrieve my keys, and slowly found my way to number 56. The keys had a constant jingle, due to my hand’s vigorous shivering, which also made it hard to get it in the lock and open the door. After a minute of nervous frustration the door opened, I jumped in and shut the door behind me.

Creative writing - The street lamps dimly lit the rain-soaked streets.........

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10 Words to Describe the Moon and Stars

By Rebecca Parpworth-Reynolds

If you’re planning on having an outdoor night setting in your novel and need some help in revealing it, below are 10 words to describe the moon and the stars.

Bright and shining.

“The night sky was aglow with a canopy of glittering stars.”

“The moon was aglow with a pure, white light which gave the travelers reassurance on their journey.”

How it Adds Description

In the right kind of clear sky, the moon and stars can really shine bright! Sometimes it’s possible to even pick up on different colors. If the moon and stars are really visible in your night sky in your story, consider describing them as being “aglow”!

Relating to the stars or space.

“Ever since she was a little girl she had been fascinated by the astral phenomena she could spot through her toy telescope. It was little wonder that one day she wished to be among the stars, too.”

“It was clear that this ancient civilization put their faith in the moon and the stars to guide them. Everywhere the explorers looked, they could see intricate astral designs carved into the stone.”

“Astral” is a great way to describe the stars and other things in outer space. The word has a sense of power and mystery to it, perfect for those truly amazing nighttime scenes or for those characters that find wonder in the stars.

3. Celestial

From the sky or outside of the Earth.

“Travelers have always relied upon celestial bodies such as the moon and stars to guide their way.”

“The night sky was lit with a celestial glow, as the moon spread its ghostly light through the thin cloud cover above.”

When it comes to describing things in the night sky, “celestial” is a top choice! It implies a sense of being outside of human reach, which can make the moon and stars mysterious, and to some characters, all the more alluring!

4. Ethereal

Light and delicate, in a way that appears otherworldly.

“The moon cast an ethereal glow across the sky, making the night seem even more sinister.”

“Many people are drawn to the ethereal nature of the stars, using them to divine various aspects of their lives.”

Thanks to the bright white of the moon and stars, they often seem quite ghostly, as if they are not real. “Ethereal” also highlights how delicate the things in the night sky can look, the stars like tiny jewels and the moon like a pale piece of silk.

5. Luminous

Emitting or reflecting bright light , especially in the darkness.
Very beautiful.

“The luminous glow of the moon cut through the darkness. Although it did not provide them with much light, it was a welcome alternative to the pitch black of the cave.”

“The stars shone like luminous jewels. Among them, she could make out the arcing row of Orion’s Belt, as well as the proud glow of Sirius, the dog star.”

The moon and stars can often be bright lights in the dark night sky, helping to light up the gloom. A great way to describe them is “luminous”, which not only captures their beauty but also illustrates the way in which the moon reflects the light of the sun!

Peaceful and calm.

“The serene glow of the moon always made her feel at ease. Whenever she could not sleep, she could always be found staring up at it from her window.”

“After the tumultuous storms they had experienced during the daytime, the serene moon and stars served as welcome guests for the sailors.”

Often, people find the moon and the stars, especially the moon, to be particularly calming. If the moon has this effect on the characters in your story, try describing it as “serene”!

7. Shimmering

Reflecting a gentle light that appears to move and shift slightly.

“In the clear night sky above them, the stars were shimmering like the jewels in her new engagement ring.”

“The shimmering reflection of the moon on the lake’s surface was gently disturbed by the wake of the small rowboat.”

In the gloom of the night sky, it is easy to see the light move and shift around the moon and the stars, either from cloud cover, or changing light levels below. This gives them the appearance that they are “shimmering”, making it easy for characters to be mystified by them, and to equate them to precious gems and jewels.

Appearing to be silver in color and appearance.

“She stared at the moon’s silvery visage shining in through the window as she prepared herself for what lay ahead.”

“The stars silvery glow reminded him of the large coin purse he was sure to receive once he finished the job, as he imagined what he would spend each astral coin on.”

“Silvery” not only helps you to explain the color of the moon and stars and how they may shine like precious metal, but it also has extra connotations too, of finery, and of course, money and wealth. Perhaps the moon and stars might complement a character’s piece of jewelry, or, remind them that sometimes what is truly priceless is something that we see every night.

9. Spectral

Ghostly , appearing like a spirit.

“The moon cast its spectral glow across the abandoned graveyard as if trying to gently awaken the dead from their slumber.”

“The stars flickered like the flames of spectral candles “

Often, moonlight is linked to ghosts and the supernatural, especially in Gothic or Horror literature. If you need to create a spooky atmosphere in your story, try describing that eerie white glow as “spectral”!

10. Tranquil

Calm, quiet, and peaceful .

“The tranquil light of the moon washed over the meadow.”

“There is nothing more tranquil than laying out under the stars on a clear night like this.”

The moon and stars are often referred to as being peaceful or bringing people calm. A great way to show this in your writing is to describe them as “tranquil.” If you need any other incentive to choose this word, the moon even has a Sea of Tranquility!

Writing With Color

Words for skin tone | how to describe skin color.

We discussed the issues describing People of Color by means of food in Part I of this guide, which brought rise to even more questions, mostly along the lines of “So, if food’s not an option, what can I use?” Well, I was just getting to that!

This final portion focuses on describing skin tone, with photo and passage examples provided throughout. I hope to cover everything from the use of straight-forward description to the more creatively-inclined, keeping in mind the questions we’ve received on this topic.

Standard Description

Basic colors.

Pictured above: Black, Brown, Beige, White, Pink.

“She had brown skin.”

This is a perfectly fine description that, while not providing the most detail, works well and will never become cliché.
Describing characters’ skin as simply brown or beige works on its own, though it’s not particularly telling just from the range in brown alone.

Complex Colors

These are more rarely used words that actually “mean” their color. Some of these have multiple meanings, so you’ll want to look into those to determine what other associations a word might have.

Pictured above: Umber, Sepia, Ochre, Russet, Terra-cotta, Gold, Tawny, Taupe, Khaki, Fawn.

Complex colors work well alone, though often pair well with a basic color in regards to narrowing down shade/tone.

For example: Golden brown , russet brown , tawny beige …

As some of these are on the “rare” side, sliding in a definition of the word within the sentence itself may help readers who are unfamiliar with the term visualize the color without seeking a dictionary.

“He was tall and slim, his skin a russet , reddish-brown .”

Comparisons to familiar colors or visuals are also helpful:

“His skin was an ochre color, much like the mellow-brown light that bathed the forest.”

Modifiers, often adjectives, make partial changes to a word. The following words are descriptors in reference to skin tone.

Dark - Deep - Rich - Cool

Warm - Medium - Tan

Fair - Light - Pale

Rich Black, Dark brown, Warm beige, Pale pink…

If you’re looking to get more specific than “brown,” modifiers narrow down shade further.

Keep in mind that these modifiers are not exactly colors.
As an already brown-skinned person, I get tan from a lot of sun and resultingly become a dark er, deeper brown . I turn a pale , more yellow-brown in the winter.
While best used in combination with a color, I suppose words like “tan” “fair” and “light” do work alone; just note that tan is less likely to be taken for “naturally tan” and much more likely a tanned White person.
Calling someone “dark” as description on its own is offensive to some and also ambiguous. (See: Describing Skin as Dark )

Undertones are the colors beneath the skin, seeing as skin isn’t just one even color but has more subdued tones within the dominating palette.

pictured above: warm / earth undertones: yellow, golden, copper, olive, bronze, orange, orange-red, coral | cool / jewel undertones: pink, red, blue, blue-red, rose, magenta, sapphire, silver.

Mentioning the undertones within a character’s skin is an even more precise way to denote skin tone.
As shown, there’s a difference between say, brown skin with warm orange-red undertones (Kelly Rowland) and brown skin with cool, jewel undertones (Rutina Wesley).

“A dazzling smile revealed the bronze glow at her cheeks.”

“He always looked as if he’d ran a mile, a constant tinge of pink under his tawny skin.”

Standard Description Passage

“Farah’s skin, always fawn , had burned and freckled under the summer’s sun. Even at the cusp of autumn, an uneven tan clung to her skin like burrs. So unlike the smooth, red-brown ochre of her mother, which the sun had richened to a blessing.”

-From my story “Where Summer Ends” featured in Strange Little Girls

Here the state of skin also gives insight on character.
Note my use of “fawn” in regards to multiple meaning and association. While fawn is a color, it’s also a small, timid deer, which describes this very traumatized character of mine perfectly.

Though I use standard descriptions of skin tone more in my writing, at the same time I’m no stranger to creative descriptions, and do enjoy the occasional artsy detail of a character.

Creative Description

Whether compared to night-cast rivers or day’s first light…I actually enjoy seeing Characters of Colors dressed in artful detail.

I’ve read loads of descriptions in my day of white characters and their “smooth rose-tinged ivory skin” , while the PoC, if there, are reduced to something from a candy bowl or a Starbucks drink, so to actually read of PoC described in lavish detail can be somewhat of a treat.

Still, be mindful when you get creative with your character descriptions. Too many frills can become purple-prose - like, so do what feels right for your writing when and where. Not every character or scene warrants a creative description, either. Especially if they’re not even a secondary character.

Using a combination of color descriptions from standard to creative is probably a better method than straight creative. But again, do what’s good for your tale.

Natural Settings - Sky

Pictured above: Harvest Moon -Twilight, Fall/Autumn Leaves, Clay, Desert/Sahara, Sunlight - Sunrise - Sunset - Afterglow - Dawn- Day- Daybreak, Field - Prairie - Wheat, Mountain/Cliff, Beach/Sand/Straw/Hay.

Now before you run off to compare your heroine’s skin to the harvest moon or a cliff side, think about the associations to your words.
When I think cliff, I think of jagged, perilous, rough. I hear sand and picture grainy, yet smooth. Calm. mellow .
So consider your character and what you see fit to compare them to.
Also consider whose perspective you’re describing them from. Someone describing a person they revere or admire may have a more pleasant, loftier description than someone who can’t stand the person.

“Her face was like the fire-gold glow of dawn , lifting my gaze, drawing me in.”

“She had a sandy complexion, smooth and tawny.”

Even creative descriptions tend to draw help from your standard words.

Pictured above: Calla lilies, Western Coneflower, Hazel Fay, Hibiscus, Freesia, Rose

It was a bit difficult to find flowers to my liking that didn’t have a 20 character name or wasn’t called something like “chocolate silk” so these are the finalists.
You’ll definitely want to avoid purple-prose here.
Also be aware of flowers that most might’ve never heard of. Roses are easy, as most know the look and coloring(s) of this plant. But Western coneflowers? Calla lilies? Maybe not so much.

“He entered the cottage in a huff, cheeks a blushing brown like the flowers Nana planted right under my window. Hazel Fay she called them, was it?”

Assorted Plants & Nature

Pictured above: Cattails, Seashell, Driftwood, Pinecone, Acorn, Amber

These ones are kinda odd. Perhaps because I’ve never seen these in comparison to skin tone, With the exception of amber.
At least they’re common enough that most may have an idea what you’re talking about at the mention of “pinecone."
I suggest reading out your sentences aloud to get a better feel of how it’ll sounds.

"Auburn hair swept past pointed ears, set around a face like an acorn both in shape and shade .”

I pictured some tree-dwelling being or person from a fantasy world in this example, which makes the comparison more appropriate.
I don’t suggest using a comparison just “cuz you can” but actually being thoughtful about what you’re comparing your character to and how it applies to your character and/or setting.

Pictured above: Mahogany, Walnut, Chestnut, Golden Oak, Ash

Wood can be an iffy description for skin tone. Not only due to several of them having “foody” terminology within their names, but again, associations.
Some people would prefer not to compare/be compared to wood at all, so get opinions, try it aloud, and make sure it’s appropriate to the character if you do use it.

“The old warlock’s skin was a deep shade of mahogany , his stare serious and firm as it held mine.”

Pictured above: Platinum, Copper, Brass, Gold, Bronze

Copper skin, brass-colored skin, golden skin…
I’ve even heard variations of these used before by comparison to an object of the same properties/coloring, such as penny for copper.
These also work well with modifiers .

“The dress of fine white silks popped against the deep bronze of her skin.”

Gemstones - Minerals

Pictured above: Onyx, Obsidian, Sard, Topaz, Carnelian, Smoky Quartz, Rutile, Pyrite, Citrine, Gypsum

These are trickier to use. As with some complex colors, the writer will have to get us to understand what most of these look like.
If you use these, or any more rare description, consider if it actually “fits” the book or scene.
Even if you’re able to get us to picture what “rutile” looks like, why are you using this description as opposed to something else? Have that answer for yourself.

“His skin reminded her of the topaz ring her father wore at his finger, a gleaming stone of brown, mellow facades.”

Physical Description

Physical character description can be more than skin tone.
Show us hair, eyes, noses , mouth, hands…body posture, body shape, skin texture… though not necessarily all of those nor at once.
Describing features also helps indicate race, especially if your character has some traits common within the race they are, such as afro hair to a Black character.
How comprehensive you decide to get is up to you. I wouldn’t overdo it and get specific to every mole and birthmark. Noting defining characteristics is good, though, like slightly spaced front teeth, curls that stay flopping in their face, hands freckled with sunspots…

General Tips

Indicate Race Early: I suggest indicators of race be made at the earliest convenience within the writing, with more hints threaded throughout here and there.

Get Creative On Your Own: Obviously, I couldn’t cover every proper color or comparison in which has been “approved” to use for your characters’ skin color, so it’s up to you to use discretion when seeking other ways and shades to describe skin tone.
Skin Color May Not Be Enough: Describing skin tone isn’t always enough to indicate someone’s ethnicity. As timeless cases with readers equating brown to “dark white” or something, more indicators of race may be needed.

Describe White characters and PoC Alike: You should describe the race and/or skin tone of your white characters just as you do your Characters of Color. If you don’t, you risk implying that White is the default human being and PoC are the “Other”).

PSA: Don’t use “Colored.” Based on some asks we’ve received using this word, I’d like to say that unless you or your character is a racist grandmama from the 1960s, do not call People of Color “colored” please.
Not Sure Where to Start? You really can’t go wrong using basic colors for your skin descriptions. It’s actually what many people prefer and works best for most writing. Personally, I tend to describe my characters using a combo of basic colors + modifiers, with mentions of undertones at times. I do like to veer into more creative descriptions on occasion.
Want some alternatives to “skin” or “skin color”? Try: Appearance, blend, blush, cast, coloring, complexion, flush, glow, hue, overtone, palette, pigmentation, rinse, shade, sheen, spectrum, tinge, tint, tone, undertone, value, wash .

Skin Tone Resources

List of Color Names
The Color Thesaurus
Skin Undertone & Color Matching
Tips and Words on Describing Skin
Photos: Undertones Described (Modifiers included)
Online Thesaurus (try colors, such as “ red ” & “ brown ”)
Don’t Call me Pastries: Creative Skin Tones w/ pics I

Writing & Description Guides

WWC Featured Description Posts
WWC Guide: Words to Describe Hair
Writing with Color: Description & Skin Color Tags
7 Offensive Mistakes Well-intentioned Writers Make

I tried to be as comprehensive as possible with this guide, but if you have a question regarding describing skin color that hasn’t been answered within part I or II of this guide, or have more questions after reading this post, feel free to ask!

~ Mod Colette

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Adjectives for Light, Words to Describe Light
Creative Adjectives to Try To Describe Light
Adjectives for Light, Words to Describe Light
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950+ Adjective Words To Describe Light
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36 Adjectives Describing Light
Opaque: blocking light; also, obtuse, or difficult to understand 26. Opalescent: see iridescent 27. Penumbral: partially shaded 28. Phosphorescent: continuing to glow after removal of a light source 29. Prismatic: brilliant, or resembling colors formed by passing light through a prism 30. Radiant: glowing, or radiating light 31.
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Light
By Angela Abraham, @daisydescriptionari, May 4, 2020 . Light upon the skin is a joy. Light upon the flower is a work of art. Light through the rain brings the arching colours of a rainbow. Light brings energy, more in a single drop than we can easily fathom. Light brings the plants to life, its warmth and energy giving the essential ingredient ...
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Creative Adjectives to Try To Describe Light
Creative Adjectives to Describe Light. Aureate: denoting a golden and extravagant color. Blinding: light that's bright enough to obscure vision. Coruscating: something that's flashing or sparkling. Crepuscular: dim or similar to twilight; Dappled: light that makes spots or rounded patches on surfaces.
A good way to describe dim lighting : r/writing
A good way to describe dim lighting. I am fairly new to writing. I am currently writing a part of my story where I try to describe dim and blinking kitchen lights. I am stuck trying to find a way to describe the lighting. Any help would be really appreciated. Honestly just write what you see in your head. You can come up with a fancy metaphor ...
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She turns down the lights. This simple adjustment is a big step toward creating a calm, receptive atmosphere. Just as the amount and quality of lighting will influence the way people feel in real life, we can adjust the moodfor both characters and readers in our stories by playing with light and shadow. Most everyone has familiar places that ...
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1. Short answer: Yes, you can do this. Technically speaking, it's a little metaphorical. As pointed out in the comments, this kind of metaphors, describing light akin to water, is fairly common and established, to the point they may not even feel like a metaphor if someone says that light was flowing into the room, or a character/object/scene ...
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eyes locked in a shared understanding. yellow rimmed eyes narrowing. peer sightlessly at a wall. eyes turned inward. shook her head and stared at the pool. Staring sightlessly into the darkness. Stared off into the crowd but didn't seem to see anything. Stared into the distance. Fixed expression.
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jazzy - bright, colourful, and attractive. loud - very bright in a way that does not show good taste. matching - with the same colour, pattern, or design. medium - neither light nor dark in colour. mellow - soft and warm in colour. multicoloured - consisting of several different colours.
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Sexual desire is a common cause of pupil dilation. So to indicate arousal in your character, go ahead and describe dilated pupils peeking through her lashes in the dim light. Or, you know . . . use your own wording. * Blinking Eyes. Use this when your character is nervous or troubled about something.
Lightning
lightning. - quotes and descriptions to inspire creative writing. Search entire site for lightning. The black heavens were made all the more enchanting by the lightning that stormy day. By Angela Abraham, @daisydescriptionari, February 9, 2021 . In the black that nurtured the evening street came streaks of bold light, came lightning to ...
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Modifiers. Modifiers, often adjectives, make partial changes to a word.The following words are descriptors in reference to skin tone. Dark - Deep - Rich - Cool. Warm - Medium - Tan. Fair - Light - Pale. Rich Black, Dark brown, Warm beige, Pale pink…. If you're looking to get more specific than "brown," modifiers narrow down shade further.
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