Colour in Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Artistic Precision Use 'colour in' when being precise in applying colours within defined areas or outlines. She asked me to colour in the map carefully. Pro Tip 2/3Creativity Encouraged The phrase suggests creativity, so choose any colour that you feel is right for the picture. Feel free to colour in the sky purple if you like! Pro Tip 3/3Child-Friendly 'Colour in' is commonly used in school settings or in activities related to children. The teacher gave the kids pictures to colour in.