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What is the Meaning of “Khaki”?

Khaki
/ˈkɑːki/
noun B2 Tier 4 (Top 10,000 words)

A light brownish-yellow colour; or cloth in this colour, often used for uniforms

Definition of Khaki

Quick Meaning of Khaki

A light brownish-yellow colour; or cloth in this colour, often used for uniforms

Detailed Definition of Khaki

A dull yellowish-brown colour; a strong cotton fabric of this colour, originally used for military uniforms

How to Pronounce Khaki

IPA: /ˈkɑːki/
kha ki

Stress pattern: oo (2-syllable word).

Tip: Pronounced /ˈkɑːki/ or /ˈkæki/ both acceptable

Watch out: Check IPA: /ˈkɑːki/

Full pronunciation guide for “khaki” →

Origin and Etymology of Khaki

From Urdu 'khaki' meaning dusty. Adopted during British India period (19th century) for military uniforms.

How to Use Khaki in a Sentence

Each example shows “khaki” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.

  • “The soldiers wore khaki uniforms in the desert terrain.”
    B2 formal
  • “She bought khaki trousers to match her brown jacket.”
    B2 daily
  • “The khaki colour blends well with natural surroundings.”
    B2 written

Synonyms and Antonyms of Khaki

Common Synonyms for Khaki

Smart Synonyms for Khaki — When to Use Each

tan
Light brown to yellowish colour
beige
Pale sandy or grey-brown colour

See all synonyms for “khaki” →

Common Collocations with Khaki

These phrases pair with “khaki” in everyday English:

  • khaki trousers
  • khaki uniform
  • khaki colour
  • khaki shorts
  • khaki pants

Common Mistakes When Using Khaki

Even fluent speakers slip up with “khaki”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:

✗ Wrong: He wear a khaki uniform to the office
✓ Correct: He wears a khaki uniform to the office
Why: Singular subject needs singular verb 'wears'
✗ Wrong: The khakis is a very practical colour
✓ Correct: Khaki is a very practical colour
Why: When referring to colour, use singular form
✗ Wrong: She dressed in khaki for be comfortable
✓ Correct: She dressed in khaki to be comfortable
Why: Use infinitive 'to be' not 'for be'

Other Forms of Khaki

Frequently Asked Questions About Khaki

What is the meaning of "Khaki"?

A light brownish-yellow colour; or cloth in this colour, often used for uniforms

How do you pronounce "Khaki"?

The IPA is /ˈkɑːki/. Pronounced /ˈkɑːki/ or /ˈkæki/ both acceptable

What part of speech is "Khaki"?

"Khaki" is a noun at B2 level (Common European Framework).

What are synonyms for "Khaki"?

Common synonyms include tan, beige, buff.

How do you use "Khaki" in a sentence?

For example: "The soldiers wore khaki uniforms in the desert terrain."

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