| 1. | the flag of a country other than one's own, esp. when used deceptively. |
| 2. | false or deceptive actions or statements; misrepresentation. |
| photography using infrared-sensitive film that produces images in which heat-emitting areas or objects appear red. |
false colors
Pretense, misrepresentation, or hypocrisy; deceptive statements or actions. For example, She's sailing under false colors
she claims to be a Republican, but endorses Democratic legislation. This term alludes to the practice of pirate ships sailing under false colorsthat is, running a particular flag specifically to lure another vessel close enough to be captured. [Late 1600s]