coloration
n. C / Un. the natural colors and patterns on a plant or animal. It can also mean the special sound or character of a voice or musical instrument.
n. the natural appearance of a living organism in terms of color and pattern; also refers to the distinctive timbre or expressive quality of a musical performance or voice.
The bird's bright coloration helps it attract a mate.
The researcher noted that the insect's dark coloration provided excellent camouflage against the forest floor.
The pianist's subtle coloration of the middle movement brought out a range of emotions that had been missing from previous interpretations of the sonata.
Uncountable when referring to the general property of color; countable when referring to specific patterns or musical variations.