What is the term for a color created by adding black to a color?

• A. Pastel
• B. Shade
• C. Tint
• D. Brightness

Answer: (B)

The term for a color created by adding black to a color is "shade." This concept is fundamental in color theory, where the addition of black to a base color deepens its tone, resulting in a darker version of that color. For instance, if you start with a pure red and add black, you create a darker, more muted red, which is referred to as a shade of red. Understanding how shades are created is essential for interior design, as it helps designers manipulate color properties to achieve desired aesthetics and moods in a space.

In contrast, a pastel typically refers to a color that is lightened by adding white, resulting in softer hues. A tint is likewise associated with the addition of white to a base color, and brightness refers to the overall lightness or darkness of a color, rather than a change specifically related to black or white. This distinction further clarifies why the correct answer is shade, as it directly relates to the act of adding black.