What do we call a person or animal that lacks normal pigmentation, so that the skin and hair are unusually white?

A striking lack of normal pigmentation, resulting in unusually white skin and hair, characterizes individuals born with a specific genetic condition. This condition means their bodies produce little or no melanin, the pigment responsible for color in skin, hair, and eyes. This absence of melanin is what gives them their distinct appearance, often making them highly noticeable in their environment.

The term used to describe such a person or animal directly reflects this defining characteristic. It comes to us from Portuguese, where the word "albino" literally means "white." This Portuguese word itself has roots in Latin, stemming from "albus," which also translates to "white." So, the name perfectly encapsulates the primary visual trait associated with the condition, having been adopted into English to describe this specific genetic trait.

Beyond the pale skin and hair, albinism often affects the eyes, which can appear pinkish or reddish due to the visible blood vessels, or sometimes blue or even light brown. Vision problems, including sensitivity to light, are also common. It's a fascinating example of how a single genetic variation can have such profound and visible effects across different species, from humans to various animals like kangaroos, peacocks, and even alligators, all sharing that unmistakable lack of color.