An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

Lacking in color, not bright, weak in color or shade.

Etymology (EN): M.E., from O.Fr. paile “pale, light-colored,” from L. pallidus “pale, pallid, colorless,” from pallere “be pale, grow pale.”

Etymology (PE): Pâl, from p(ox) + âl, a combination of (Delijân) pox “pale” + (Kurd) âl “pale.”