1 B1 informal
(Of a person) to blush or become visibly red in the face, especially from embarrassment.
"She colored up the moment he walked into the room and smiled at her."
inseparable
color up
B1 informal transitive/intransitive
American English: (of a person) to become flushed or red in the face, typically from embarrassment or shyness; also to add colour to something.
In plain English
When your face turns red because you're embarrassed or shy.
What does "color up" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 neutral
To add colour or vibrancy to something that is dull or plain.
"A few potted plants really colored up the dull grey office."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
The face takes on colour — transparent physiological description.
Actually means
When your face turns red because you're embarrassed or shy.
Usage tip
The 'blush' sense is the most common; it is mainly British English despite the American spelling used here — both 'color up' and 'colour up' are used across varieties. The 'add colour' sense is less frequent. Often used for describing a spontaneous, involuntary reaction.
Words that pair with "color up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
cheeks face embarrassment compliment mention
How to conjugate "color up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
color up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
colors up
he/she/it
Past simple
colored up
yesterday
Past participle
colored up
have + pp
-ing form
coloring up
continuous
Hear "color up" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "color up" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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