Saturation or chroma in color science describes the intensity or purity of a color, representing how much color is present relative to gray. It quantifies the amount of color per unit area, distinguishing vivid, rich colors from dull, washed-out ones. This is crucial in clinical settings, such as wound assessment, where color saturation indicates tissue health or pathology. Unlike brightness or hue, saturation focuses solely on color concentration rather than its lightness or specific shade.

Reference: Color Science, Wyszecki & Stiles, 2nd Edition.