colour
UK: ˈkʌlə | US: ˈkʌlər
n. the property of an object or substance as perceived by the eyes, resulting from the way it reflects or emits light
n. (figurative) vividness, variety, or distinctive character (e.g., "the colour of local traditions")
vt. to add colour to something; to influence or distort (e.g., "emotions colour memory")
The word "colour" traces back to Latin color, derived from col- (a variant of cum, meaning "with") and -or (a suffix denoting state or condition). Originally, it referred to the visual perception of light reflected by objects. Over time, it expanded metaphorically to describe vividness or bias (e.g., "coloured opinions"). The British spelling retains the Old French-influenced -our, while American English simplified it to -or.
The artist mixed blue and yellow to create a vibrant green colour.
Autumn leaves display a stunning range of colours.
Her anecdotes added colour to the historical account.
Childhood memories are often coloured by nostalgia.
The film was criticized for its lack of colour diversity in casting.