Coat with color (5)
![Ross](/clue/static/ross-mug.min.png)
I believe the answer is:
paint
(Other definitions for paint that I've seen before include "Use a brush on canvas" , "Vividly describe; cosmetic (joc.)" , "Apply a coat of colour" , "Eg, emulsion or gloss" , "Coloured liquid in tins" .)