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

Scientists say the split coloring is likely caused by a genetic mutation or pigment irregularities, and aquarium biologist Julia Studley broke down the specific mechanism for Popular Science. —Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 27 Apr. 2026

The process essentially gives the lobster two distinct genetic profiles — one for each half of its body — which is why the coloring on each side of its shell looks so different. —Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 27 Apr. 2026

Plus, unlike traditional methods of coloring panels that often use 'diffusing foils' that scatter light everywhere and cause power losses of up to 50%, MorphoColor uses a precise 3D photonic structure on the glass surface designed specifically for high transmission. —Abhimanyu Ghoshal, New Atlas, 24 Apr. 2026

The split-coloring is believed to be caused by either a genetic mutation or pigment irregularities, according to scientists. —Melina Khan, USA Today, 23 Apr. 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)