What is the definition of dyeing?

Dyeing is defined as the process of applying color to a fabric using a dye solution, in which soluble color is combined with fibers, allowing the dye to bond chemically or physically with the material. This method ensures that the color is integrated at a molecular level, resulting in a long-lasting color that is less likely to wash out or fade over time.

Dyes used in this process can be derived from natural or synthetic sources and are specifically designed to interact with different types of fibers, making dyeing a versatile and widely-used technique in textile manufacturing. This bonding typically takes place in a liquid state, where the dye molecules penetrate the fabric's fibers during the dyeing process, resulting in uniform coloration throughout the material.

The other options do not accurately represent the dyeing process. Application of color without chemical means does not cover the various reactions that dyes undergo with fibers. Printing involves applying color to the surface rather than penetrating the fibers, and infusion in a dye gel suggests a method that does not typically reflect standard dyeing practices used in the textile industry.