What is the term for a pure color to which only black has been added?

The term for a pure color to which only black has been added is "shade." In color theory, a shade is created by adding black to a color, resulting in a darker version of that original hue. This process alters the lightness of the color while maintaining its inherent qualities. Understanding shades is essential for designers as it allows them to create depth and contrast in their designs, adding sophistication and richness to any palette.

On the other hand, tints are produced by adding white to a color, which lightens it, while tones involve adding both black and white to adjust the lightness or darkness of a color without dramatically shifting its hue. Chroma refers to the purity or intensity of a color, and it does not specifically denote the addition of black. Recognizing these distinctions is important for anyone involved in color selection and application in interior design.