coloring

noun

col·​or·​ing ˈkə-lə-riŋ 

1

a

: the act of applying colors

b

: something that produces color or color effects

c(1)

: the effect produced by applying or combining colors

(2)

: natural color

(3)

: complexion, coloration

d

: change of appearance (as by adding color)

2

: influence, bias

3

: color sense 8

4

: timbre, quality

Synonyms of coloring

• pigment
• dye
• color
• colorant
• stain

Examples of coloring in a Sentence

Her favorite activities include playing with stuffed animals and coloring.

Our product contains no artificial coloring or flavoring.

She added some blue food coloring to the icing.

This scarf will look great with your coloring.

He has very light coloring.

Recent Examples on the Web

The 32-year-old actress first debuted the cut with fresh cherry cola coloring in August 2025 and has kept her hair short ever since. —Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 4 Feb. 2026

For years, Raines’ organization has served people experiencing homelessness across the region, providing them services such as hair coloring, makeup and mobile showers. —Joseph Serna, Los Angeles Times, 29 Jan. 2026

Artificial ingredients like food coloring and sugar can also help keep gummies stable. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 28 Jan. 2026

Studies show that coloring can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety while improving your mood. —Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 28 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing coloring

• coloring book

Kids Definition

coloring

noun

col·​or·​ing ˈkəl-(ə-)riŋ 

1

: the act of applying colors

2

: something that produces color

food coloring

3

: the effect produced by applying or combining colors

4

: complexion sense 1, coloration

5

: change of appearance (as by adding color)