Cologne - Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

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SKIP TO CONTENT cologne /kəˈloʊn/ /kəˈlʌʊn/ IPA guide

Other forms: colognes

Cologne is a type of perfume, a liquid that smells good and is meant to be dabbed behind your ears. When you get dressed up for a night on the town, you might be sure to put some cologne on your neck.

Both men and women wear cologne, which is scented with extracts or oils in a base of alcohol and water. Cologne is considered a kind of toilet water, which is less concentrated than perfume — and can be applied more liberally. If you've ever stood in an elevator with a man wearing an excessive amount of cologne, you know there can be too much of a good thing. The word is from the French eau de Cologne, "water from Cologne (Germany)."

Definitions of cologne

noun a perfumed liquid made of essential oils and alcohol synonyms: cologne water, eau de cologne see moresee less type of: essence, perfume a toiletry that emits and diffuses a fragrant odor

Pronunciation US /kəˈloʊn/ UK /kəˈlʌʊn/ Cite this entry Style: MLA

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Copy citation DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘cologne'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback Word Family

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