subfusc

See also: sub fusc, and sub-fusc

English

Etymology

From Latin subfuscus (“moderately dark”).

Pronunciation

• enPR: sŭb-fŭsk', IPA^(key): /sʌbˈfʌsk/
• Rhymes: -ʌsk

Adjective

subfusc (comparative more subfusc, superlative most subfusc)

1. Having subdued colors.
   • 2020, Hilary Mantel, The Mirror and the Light, London: Fourth Estate, page 6:

     The courtiers tramping across the green eye the: [the Duke of] Suffolk with his big beard, his flashing eye, his big chest, and Master Secretary [Thomas Cromwell] subfusc, low-slung, square.

Noun

subfusc (usually uncountable, plural subfuscs)

1. Dark clothing.
2. Clothing acceptable, by regulation at certain universities, for an examination or official event.
3. (Oxford University) Formal clothing worn on special academic occasions.

Related terms

• subfuscous