# vermeil

> English word · Adjective · IPA /ˈvɜː.meɪl/ · frequency rank #86,918

## Definitions
1. Bright scarlet, vermilion.
2. Specifically of faces, lips etc.: red, ruddy, healthy-looking.

## Etymology
From Middle English vermayle, from Old French vermeil (“vermilion”), from Latin vermiculus (“little worm”), from vermis (“worm”), ultimately in reference to Kermes vermilio, a type of scale insect used to make a crimson dye. Doublet of vermicule.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/vermeil