Orange first emerged as a distinct color term in Europe during the 16th century, taking its name from the citrus fruit introduced via trade routes. Across ancient cultures—from Egypt to China—orange minerals and dyes were treasured for their ability to evoke the essence of sunlight and fire. Harvest festivals worldwide embraced orange to celebrate abundance and transition, while spiritual traditions linked it to enlightenment and vitality.
Modern color psychology associates orange with enthusiasm, confidence, and social connectivity, making it an energizing choice for branding and web design. In the RGB color model, it blends red (255) and green (165) while omitting blue, producing its characteristic warmth. Designers often use the hex code #FF8C00 for digital applications or a CMYK combination of 0% cyan, 35% magenta, 100% yellow, and 0% black in print. Variations, from soft peach tints to deep burnt shades, extend its versatility across interior décor, marketing campaigns, and intuitive signage.
Other related colors to orange: