tawny

[ taw-nee ]

adjective

, taw·ni·er, taw·ni·est.

1. of a dark yellowish or dull yellowish-brown color.

noun

1. a shade of brown tinged with yellow; dull yellowish brown.

tawny

/ ˈtɔːnɪ /

noun

1. 1. a light brown to brownish-orange colour
   2. ( as adjective )

      tawny port

Derived Forms

• ˈtawniness, noun

Other Words From

• tawni·ly adverb
• tawni·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of tawny¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English tauny, from Anglo-French taune, from Middle French tané, past participle of taner “to tan”; tan ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of tawny¹

C14: from Old French tané, from taner to tan ¹

Example Sentences

The young tawny cougar with the broad, handsome features headed east for nearly 50 miles to escape his father, wandering through whatever green spaces he could find “and probably more than few backyards,” Pratt said.

From Los Angeles Times

He had seen tawny owls in the neighbourhood before but was surprised to discover these so close to the heart of the city.

From BBC

This summer, Currie — who has tawny hair and, often, a light tan — is planning to travel to various destinations in Europe to buttle at vacation houses.

From Seattle Times

The rich, tawny caramel-colored result, served iced, tastes almost like chocolate.

From Seattle Times

Her version of this classic practically glows, its tawny surface glistening, a look that promises richness.

From Seattle Times