Definition of colorantnext
as in pigment
a substance used to color other materials in ancient times, a mollusk was used to produce a rich purple colorant for clothing and linens

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of colorant It is used to make liquid shellac, a brush-on colorant and wood finish, and is found in shampoos, aluminum foil and lipstick. Scott Lafee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 3 Mar. 2026 Twenty-six other states have followed in California’s footsteps with legislation — some signed into law, others still in progress — that would either ban, restrict or require labels for artificial colorants. Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 5 Feb. 2026 Every Rae product remains vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, and free from harmful fillers, colorants, and artificial preservatives. Kathryn Hopkins, Footwear News, 16 Dec. 2025 But the replacements are still made of complex materials that include additives like colorants; the chemicals can react in ways the companies may not intend or understand, Boucher says. Matt Fuchs, Time, 5 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for colorant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for colorant
Noun
  • This is because researchers had long assumed that the black pigments used by the paintings’ makers were purely mineral, making radiocarbon dating—a method that measures the amount of carbon-14 in organic materials—impossible.
    Anne Doran, ARTnews.com, 29 July 2026
  • That allows the pigment to transfer subtly into the lashes for a softer, more natural-looking finish.
    Marci Robin, Allure, 24 July 2026
Noun
  • Wondering how to lighten your hair without bleach is a common musing among hair dye enthusiasts.
    Audrey Noble, Vogue, 28 July 2026
  • On Joseph’s team, Aaron says the Gullah Geechee people and their deftness with indigo dye are guiding the designers’ shades of blue.
    Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 24 July 2026
Noun
  • Louise Watley Library will host a break from the heat in the form of a relaxing coloring program geared toward all ages several times throughout the month.
    Elizabeth Green, AJC.com, 30 July 2026
  • Their distinct coloring is both a warning for predators and a badge of initiation.
    Vann R. Newkirk II, The Atlantic, 28 July 2026
Noun
  • There is at the same time just the one Garmin Cirqa, and four color options for it.
    Andrew Williams, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026
  • All fruits and vegetables provide micronutrients and antioxidants, but those that are darker and richer in color have higher concentrations of these anti-inflammatory compounds.
    Maggie O'Neill, Verywell Health, 21 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Colorant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/colorant. Accessed 2 Aug. 2026.

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