1. a colorless substance that can be converted into a dye or pigment
Usage: chemistry; biology
2. a microorganism that produces pigment
Usage: microbiology

Examples

• The chromogen was activated by the enzyme to produce a bright blue color.
• Scientists isolated the chromogen from the bacterial culture.
• The diagnostic test relies on a chromogen that changes color in the presence of the target substance.
• Certain chromogens are used in histological staining procedures.
• The chromogen remained colorless until exposed to the oxidizing agent.
• Researchers studied the chromogen-producing bacteria found in marine environments.