Emily Dickinson Lexicon

vermillion, n. [ED's variant spelling of “vermilion”; AFr and OFr vermail < L. vermiculus, a worm.] (webplay: cochineal, color, name, red.).

1. Bright, beautiful red color.
2. Cochineal; small insect found on a particular plant; color associated with or produced from the cochineal.
3. Ruddy color of health.