Red and its symbols

Red is often considered "the colour of colours". In some languages, the words "red" and "coloured" are synonyms; in other languages, "red" and "beautiful" are synonyms.

Red excites our senses and activates blood circulation. It is the colour of passionate love, sensuality and desire.

Red is joyful. Many children-oriented products are red: balls, toys, garments, as well as other products that trigger pleasure like fruit jam, candies, etc. Christmas decorations are red too.

Red evokes exuberance, speed and action. It is no coincidence that so many sports cars are red.

Red and orange are the hues that are easiest to perceive from a distance. This is one of the reasons they are used to warn against dangers. They are also the colours of prohibition. Stop signs and traffic lights are red. Warnings on medication packages are printed in red.

Red attracts our attention: we use it to mark students' homework and exams or to show that a certain product is sold at a reduced price.

Red, the colour of blood, identifies first aid services such as the Red Cross. Also, until the 19th century, red was used in many of Europe's military uniforms.

Red conveys anger and aggressiveness, such as in "to see red", and "red with anger". It also conveys other emotions such as in "red with embarrassment", "red with shame", or "he went red".

Pastoureau, Michel ; Dictionnaire des couleurs de notre temps ; Paris, Christine Bonneton, 1999 ; 255 pages ; Collection Symbolique et société.
La Couleur Nature, histoire et décoration ; Paris, Le Temps Apprivoisé ; 1993 ; 256 pages.