noir

/nwɑːr/ /nwɑːʁ/

Definitions

1. noun

a style or movement of cinema or literature characterized by dark and moody themes, and often involving crime or the underworld.

“The film noir genre gained popularity in the 1940s and 1950s.”

2. adjective

dark or gloomy in tone or atmosphere.

“The noir novel was a bestseller due to its dark and suspenseful plot.”

3. adjective

relating to or characteristic of the French artistic movement of the same name, which emphasized the use of dark colours and bold, geometric forms.

“The artist’s use of noir colours created a dramatic effect on the canvas.”

4. adjective

relating to or characteristic of a type of coffee that is roasted to a dark French or Italian roast level, often described as having a rich, intense flavour.

“The coffee shop served a variety of noir roasts, including a French roast and an Italian roast.”

5. noun

a French-speaking region in Belgium.

“The city of Charleroi is located in the region of Wallonia, also known as the ‘noir’ region.”

Synonyms

  • dark
  • gloomy
  • macabre
  • surreal

Antonyms

  • bright
  • cheerful
  • luminous
  • optimistic