綵

Core sense is varicolored, variegated silk or multi-colored textiles. The term specifically denotes variegation achieved through weaving and dyeing, implying luxury and craftsmanship rather than raw pigment. When used as an adjective for non-textile objects, it suggests a pattern or brilliance reminiscent of high-end silk.

Functions as a noun (referring to the textile object itself) or as a modifier meaning variegated or multi-colored. It does not function as a verb (i.e., it does not mean "to gather" or "to pluck").

Distinguished from 彩 in that 綵 emphasizes the physical, tactile textile (such as fabric, ribbons, banners, or robes), whereas 彩 refers to abstract or visual qualities such as luster, brilliance, spirit, or the general concept of color.

Simplified variant: U+433D.

Contains the phonetic component 采.

When context suggests a luxury item, avoid translating simply as "colorful"; prefer terms that evoke textile craft or pattern (e.g., "polychrome," "variegated," or "patterned silk"). The glyph frequently appears in descriptions of courtly regalia, ritual offerings, and celestial imagery (such as rainbow-colored clouds or divine attire).