What does chromatic mean in music?

In music, "chromatic" refers to a scale or movement that includes all twelve pitches within an octave, using half steps (semitones) between each note. This contrasts with diatonic music, which is based on a specific scale with seven distinct notes. Chromaticism adds color and complexity to music by incorporating notes outside the main scale, often creating tension and resolution. It is commonly used in various genres to enhance melodic and harmonic expression.