The word white has several meanings:

1. A color that is the lightest possible shade, like fresh snow, clean paper, or fluffy clouds on a sunny day. White contains all the colors of light mixed together. When you shine white light through a prism, it separates into a rainbow of colors. White reflects light instead of absorbing it, which is why white clothing keeps you cooler on hot days than dark clothing does.
2. The clear part of an egg surrounding the yolk. When you crack an egg into a pan, the egg white spreads out as a thick, transparent liquid that turns solid white when cooked. Bakers often separate whites from yolks when making meringues or angel food cake, whipping the whites until they form stiff, glossy peaks.
3. Used to describe people with light-colored skin, typically those whose ancestors came from Europe. This meaning is connected to race and identity, so it can be sensitive and depends on history and context.

The word can also mean pure or innocent, as in a white lie (a small, harmless untruth told to avoid hurting someone's feelings) or white knight (someone who rescues others from difficult situations).