noun

pallor

PAL-er/ˈpælər/

Unusual paleness of the skin, often from illness or fear.

The man's unusual pallor contrasts with the warmer skin of his neck and arms.

A close view of a seated young Black man whose unusually ashen face and pale lips contrast with the warmer brown skin of his neck and forearms; his slightly slumped posture and tired expression reinforce that this is abnormal paleness rather than his natural complexion.

Etymology

Latin pallor names paleness and derives from a verb meaning “be pale” or “turn pale.” The selected English sense focuses that state on an unusually pale face or skin.

In context

Storytime Haven357:53

Then looking up and seeing the grey pallor of her face, which even her great joy could not in a moment efface, she stroked it

✨ The Man by Bram Stoker | A Tale of Love, Courage & Destiny 📖

More examples

Her sudden pallor reveals how frightened she is.
His pallor fades as he recovers from the illness.
Even in the dim light, her pallor is unmistakable.

Similar words

paleness: Paleness also describes light color in objects, not just skin.
wanness: Wanness suggests a tired or unhealthy appearance as well.