Definitions

1. noun

The punctuation mark (:) used to introduce a quotation, a comment, or an explanation.

“The colon is used to separate the hours from the minutes in a clock: 3:45.”

2. noun

A part of the large intestine, especially the part between the caecum and the rectum.

“He had colon cancer and underwent surgery to remove the tumor.”

3. noun

A group of stars, especially a group of stars that appear to form a shape in the sky.

“The constellation of Orion is visible in the night sky.”

4. verb

To put or bring something into the colon or rectum, especially in medical treatment.

“The doctor will colonize the patient’s gut with beneficial bacteria.”

5. verb

To settle or inhabit a new area, especially one that was previously uninhabited.

“The birds colonized the island and started breeding.”