# coloration

/ˌkəɫɝˈeɪʃən/ (US) · /kˌʌləɹˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/coloration
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- 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.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable when referring to the general property of color; countable when referring to specific patterns or musical variations.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.