colour

[kuhl-er]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

Chiefly British.

color.

colour

/ ˈ��ʌ��ə /

noun

1. 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
2. the aspect of visual perception by which an observer recognizes this attribute
3. the quality of the light producing this aspect of visual perception
4. ( as modifier )
  colour vision
Also called: chromatic colour.��
1. a colour, such as red or green, that possesses hue, as opposed to achromatic colours such as white or black
2. ( 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
1. the skin complexion of a person, esp as determined by his race
2. ( as modifier )
  colour prejudice
  colour problem
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
to become red in the face, esp when embarrassed or annoyed
(intr) (esp of ripening fruit) to change hue

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Spelling Note

See -or ¹.

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Other Word Forms

transcolour adjective

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Word History and Origins

Origin of colour¹

C13: from Old French colour from Latin color tint, hue

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

According to Amnesty International, South Africa has one of the most unequal school systems in the world - with a child's outcome very much dependent on their place of birth, wealth and colour of their skin.

From

The ceremony dates back to the 17th Century and sees regimental colours being displayed in front of the monarch - with the colours of the Coldstream Guards to be presented this year.

From

So far, they have developed an apple that matures with a ripe colour two months earlier than existing apple trees.

From

It said some of these products may also contain additives and colours which aren't allowed to be sold in the UK.

From

JD Sports said it was waiting for a delivery of the new print colour and would be able to offer the service to customers soon.

From

colotomy colourable

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