adjective

pallid

PAL-id/ˈpælɪd/

Pale, especially from lack of healthy color.

His face looks pallid after several days of illness.

A close view of a sick young man resting against a pillow, his unusually washed-out face and nearly colorless lips emphasized against his warmer-toned hand.

Etymology

Latin pallidus described a pale or colorless appearance and came from a verb meaning “be pale.” English preserves that image in the wan appearance associated here with illness or fear.

In context

Storytime Haven728:10

unlaced his helmet and bathed his pallid blood-stained face. He looked up at the Prince with burning eyes.

Sir Nigel ⚔️🌟 | A Tale of Chivalry and Adventure | Arthur Conan Doyle

More examples

Under the harsh lights, her skin looks pallid.
His pallid complexion worries the nurse.
The sequel feels like a pallid imitation of the original.

Forms

pallid · more pallid · most pallid

pallor noun — Unusual paleness of the skin or face.

Similar words

pale: Describes light coloring without necessarily suggesting illness or weakness.
wan: Suggests a pale appearance caused by fatigue or illness.
ashen: Describes a grayish pallor often caused by shock or fear.