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colours

British  
/ ˈkʌləz /

plural noun

    1. the flag that indicates nationality

    2. military the ceremony of hoisting or lowering the colours

  1. a pair of silk flags borne by a military unit, esp British, comprising the Queen's Colour showing the unit's crest, and the Regimental Colour showing the crest and battle honours

  2. true nature or character (esp in the phrase show one's colours )

  3. a distinguishing badge or flag, as of an academic institution

  4. sport a badge or other symbol denoting membership of a team, esp at a school or college

  5. informal a distinguishing embroidered patch denoting membership of a motorcycle gang

    1. to refuse to admit defeat

    2. to declare openly one's opinions or allegiances

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Stargazers around the UK were treated to the vivid colours of the aurora borealis on Saturday night.

From BBC ● Nov. 1, 2026

She also offers classes in darning using contrasting vibrant colours that celebrate, rather than disguise, the repair.

From BBC ● Oct. 30, 2026

Residents across the UK were left stunned as the sky was illuminated by the spectacular colours of the Northern Lights on Friday and Saturday evenings.

From BBC ● Oct. 10, 2026

He has a mate collection with the drinkware giants Stanley, the brand's first multi-year deal with an athlete, and he gave his opinion on materials and colours.

From BBC ● Oct. 6, 2026

It was dead, or nearly there, and turning all kinds of colours.

From "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel

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