color phase

noun

1. a genetically controlled variation in the colors of the skin, pelt, or plumage of an animal.
2. one of two or more colorings assumed by an animal, varying with age or season.

Word History and Origins

Origin of color phase¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Females of this color phase can be found where pipevine swallowtails are more abundant.

From New York Times

All specimens examined are in the brown color phase.

From Project Gutenberg

A color phase of the common red fox," replied the doctor, "and if not worth its weight in gold it is worth so much that a single skin is often worth twice over the whole of a season's catch of other furs.

From Project Gutenberg

Five are in the reddish color phase and one is in the brownish phase.

From Project Gutenberg

Blue geese are a color phase of the lesser snow.

From Project Gutenberg