Collins English-English Dictionary

colour ['k^lə]

1. 1. n null chromatic colour

2. 2. n 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

3. 3. n the aspect of visual perception by which an observer recognizes this attribute

4. 4. n the quality of the light producing this aspect of visual perception

5. 5. n (as modifier)

   colour vision

6. 6. n a colour, such as red or green, that possesses hue, as opposed to achromatic colours such as white or black

7. 7. n (as modifier) - Compare black-and-white

   a colour television

   a colour film

8. 8. n a substance, such as a dye, pigment, or paint, that imparts colour to something

9. 9. n the skin complexion of a person, esp as determined by his race

10. 10. n (as modifier)

    colour prejudice

    colour problem

11. 11. n the use of all the hues in painting as distinct from composition, form, and light and shade

12. 12. n the quantity and quality of ink used in a printing process

13. 13. n the distinctive tone of a musical sound; timbre

14. 14. n vividness, authenticity, or individuality

    period colour

15. 15. n semblance or pretext (esp in the phrases take on a different colour, under colour of)

16. 16. n [US] a precious mineral particle, esp gold, found in auriferous gravel

17. 17. n [Physics] one of three characteristics of quarks, designated red, blue, or green, but having no relationship with the physical sensation

18. 18. vb to give or apply colour to (something)

19. 19. vt. [tr] to give a convincing or plausible appearance to (something, esp to that which is spoken or recounted)

    to colour an alibi

20. 20. vt. [tr] to influence or distort (something, esp a report or opinion)

    anger coloured her judgment

21. 21. vi. [intr; often foll by up] to become red in the face, esp when embarrassed or annoyed

22. 22. vi. [intr] (esp of ripening fruit) to change hue

23. 23. vi. See also colours

24. 24. vi. [Etymology] C13: from Old French colour from Latin color tint, hue