1. n. a punctuation mark (:), used esp. to introduce a quotation or a list of items or to separate clauses when the second expands or illustrates the first; also between numbers in a statement of proportion (as in 10:1) and in Biblical references (as in Exodus 3:2).
Etymology: L f. Gk kolon limb, clause 2. n. Anat. the lower and greater part of the large intestine, from the caecum to the rectum.
Derivatives:
colonic adj.
Etymology: ME, ult. f. Gk kolon