colour Definition

colour
color
noun

1a. The visual sensation produced when light of different wavelengths is absorbed by the cones of the retina and relayed, in the form of nerve impulses, to the brain;
1b. The particular visual sensation produced in this way, depending upon the wavelength.
2. Any of these variations or colours, often with the addition of black and white.

Thesaurus: pigmentation, hue, shade, iridescence, tone, wash, tint, tinge, cast, blush, tincture;
3. photog.art.
The use of some or all colours, as distinct from black and white only.
Example: in full colour
4. A colouring substance, especially paint.
5a. The shade of a person's skin, as related to race;
5b. The darker skin shades.
6. Pinkness of the face or cheeks, usually indicating healthiness.
7. Lively or convincing detail.

Example: add local colour to the story
8. Richness of quality in music, or its mood and quality generally. See also colours.

verb coloured, colouring

1a. To put colour on to something;

Thesaurus: dye, stain, fresco, variegate, imbue, emblazon, tone, embellish, illuminate, tint, rouge; Antonym: bleach, fade.
1b. To paint or dye.
2. To fill in (an outlined area or a black and white picture) with colour.

Form: colour something in (often)
3. To influence.

Example: Personal feelings can colour one's judgement
Thesaurus: misrepresent, distort, pervert, disguise, stage-manage, give a spin to (slang).
intr
4. To blush.

Thesaurus: blush, flush, redden, mantle, bloom, glow; Antonym: whiten.

Idiom: lend colour to something

To give it credence; to make it more believable.

Idiom: nail one's colours to the mast

See under colours.

Idiom: off colour

colloq
Unwell.

Etymology: 13c: French, from Latin color.