What does the term saturation indicate in design?

The term saturation in design refers to the intensity and vividness of a color. It describes how pure or vibrant a color appears, with higher saturation indicating a more intense color and lower saturation resulting in a more muted or greyed-out appearance. This concept is critical for designers, as it impacts how colors interact with each other and the overall mood and aesthetic of a design. High saturation can create strong visual interest and energy, while low saturation can evoke a sense of calmness or subtlety, making it an essential consideration in color selection. Understanding saturation allows designers to effectively communicate messages and emotions through their work.