Key colour
The main colour of a scheme, from which the others are chosen or generated.
Also: dominant colour, base colour
A key colour is the one that sets the direction for a whole palette. A brand might choose a particular green; the supporting neutrals, tints and accents are then built around it. Some design systems generate an entire set of interface colours from a single key colour by stepping its lightness and strength. In painting, a picture is said to be in a high key when most of its colours are light, and a low key when most are dark. This is not the same as the key plate in printing.