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colour
[ kuhl-er ]
colour
/ ˈʌə /
noun
- an attribute of things that results from the light they reflect, transmit, or emit in so far as this light causes a visual sensation that depends on its wavelengths
- the aspect of visual perception by which an observer recognizes this attribute
- the quality of the light producing this aspect of visual perception
- ( as modifier )
colour vision
- Also calledchromatic colour
- a colour, such as red or green, that possesses hue, as opposed to achromatic colours such as white or black
- ( as modifier ) Compare black-and-white
a colour television
a colour film
- a substance, such as a dye, pigment, or paint, that imparts colour to something
- the skin complexion of a person, esp as determined by his race
- ( as modifier )
colour problem
colour prejudice
- the use of all the hues in painting as distinct from composition, form, and light and shade
- the quantity and quality of ink used in a printing process
- the distinctive tone of a musical sound; timbre
- vividness, authenticity, or individuality
period colour
- semblance or pretext (esp in the phrases take on a different colour, under colour of )
- a precious mineral particle, esp gold, found in auriferous gravel
- physics one of three characteristics of quarks, designated red, blue, or green, but having no relationship with the physical sensation
verb
- to give or apply colour to (something)
- tr to give a convincing or plausible appearance to (something, esp to that which is spoken or recounted)
to colour an alibi
- tr to influence or distort (something, esp a report or opinion)
anger coloured her judgment
- introften foll byup to become red in the face, esp when embarrassed or annoyed
- intr (esp of ripening fruit) to change hue
Spelling Note
Other Word Forms
- ٰԲ·DZoܰ adjective
Word History and Origins
Origin of colour1
Example Sentences
Starbucks said in April that its baristas would wear dark, single coloured shirts to "allow our iconic green apron to shine and create a sense of familiarity for our customers".
"We have to remember that the Roman Empire, and indeed the Middle Ages, didn't think of race as we think of it nowadays. It had nothing to do with skin colour," he told the BBC.
This is "owing to a combination of their complex modern materials, lack of a traditional coating layer, and intensity of flat colour fields, which make even the smallest areas of damage instantly perceptible," she said.
David's lounge is a riot of colour – on the floor of his living room are porcelain figurines, hundreds of yellowed newspapers and, balanced across the back of his settee, several thousand Barbie dolls.
"I spotted one that was identical, same colour, same year, same slightly obnoxious exhaust system on it as well," he explained.
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