#DC143C
Red family

Crimson

Also known as: bold · passionate · energetic · dramatic · intense
Hex #DC143C
RGB rgb(220, 20, 60)
HSL hsl(348°, 83%, 47%)
CMYK 0 · 91 · 73 · 14
Pantone Pantone 186 C
CSS crimson
RAL RAL 3027 · Raspberry Red
NCS S 1060-R

RAL and NCS values are nearest equivalents, not official designations.

Meaning

The psychology, symbolism and cultural history of Crimson.

Crimson symbolizes passion, power, and determination. In many cultures it represents love in its most intense form — not the gentle pink of romance, but the burning conviction of deep devotion. It also carries connotations of courage and sacrifice.

The word 'crimson' comes from the Old Spanish 'cremesín', derived from Arabic 'qirmizī', referring to the kermes insect. For centuries, crimson dyes were among the most expensive pigments in the world, reserved for royalty and the church.

boldpassionateenergeticdramaticintense

Similar colors

The closest colors to Crimson by perceived distance.

All 33 Reds →

Shades & tints

9 variations of Crimson by lightness, from dark to light.

-40% #720A1F
-30% #8D0D26
-20% #A70F2E
-10% #C21235
BASE #DC143C
+15% #E03053
+30% #E44C6B
+50% #E96982
+70% #ED859A

Complementary

Colors that pair beautifully with Crimson on the color wheel.

Palettes

Curated 5-color combinations featuring Crimson.

#DC143C
#1C1C1C
#F5F5F5
#8B0000
#D4AF37

Classic & Timeless

Elegant and powerful
#DC143C
#228B22
#FFD700
#FFF8DC
#8B4513

Crimson Garden

Natural and vibrant
#DC143C
#0D0D2B
#4B0082
#C0C0C0
#FF69B4

Crimson Night

Dramatic and mysterious

Used by

Brands and institutions known for using Crimson.

Coca-ColaYouTubeNetflixAdobeHarvard University
1 / 33 Reds Scarlet
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