color in
To use crayons or coloured pencils to add colour inside the lines of a drawing.
Meanings
To apply colour to a drawing or outline using pencils, crayons, or similar tools.
"The children were asked to color in the map of the United States with different shades."
(Figurative) To add vivid detail or richness to an account, story, or description.
"The biographer colored in the story with personal anecdotes from the subject's family."
'Color in' is the American English spelling; 'colour in' is British. Both mean exactly the same thing. Very common in contexts involving children's art, educational activities, and illustration. Can also be used metaphorically for adding richness or detail.
Commonly used with
Forms
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