What does "color saturation" describe?

Color saturation refers to the intensity or purity of a color. It describes how vibrant or muted a color appears, with fully saturated colors being vivid and intense, while desaturated colors appear more washed out and grayish. This concept plays a significant role in graphic design, as it affects the overall impact and emotional response to a design.

For instance, a highly saturated red might evoke strong emotions or grab attention, making it suitable for a call-to-action button in web design. In contrast, less saturated colors can create a more subdued and sophisticated look, suitable for backgrounds or more serious design elements. Understanding saturation helps designers manipulate visual hierarchies and influence perceptions effectively.