The word "noir" is often used to describe a genre of literature and film that emphasizes moral ambiguity, crime, and the darker aspects of human nature. It typically features a cynical protagonist, a femme fatale, and an atmosphere of pessimism and despair. The aesthetics of noir often include stark lighting, urban settings, and a sense of nostalgia.
The term "noir" comes from the French word meaning "black." It was originally used in the context of "film noir," which refers to a style of filmmaking that emerged in the United States in the 1940s and 1950s, characterized by its morally ambiguous themes and distinctive visual style.