Definitions

1. noun

A red or purple pigment derived from certain insects or other sources, used historically as a dye.

“The artist used a mixture of cochineal and purpurin to create a vibrant, crimson hue for her painting.”

2. noun

A type of organic compound that is responsible for the color in certain insects, such as the cochineal bug.

“Purpurin is a key component in the distinctive coloration of the scarlet cochineal bug.”