Paint is the general term for liquid that is used to add colour to the surface of an object by covering it with a pigmented (coloured) coating. As a verb, painting means "applying paint" (putting paint onto something). Someone who paints is called a painter.

Paint is used to decorate, protect and prolong the life of natural and synthetic materials, and acts as a barrier against environmental conditions.

Latex paint is still the most common option for indoor paint jobs, and is also the most environmentally responsible option. It dries faster than oil-based paint, and it is easier to clean—soap and water does the job.