Colloids are a type of mixture that consists of tiny particles suspended in a medium. There are several synonyms that could be used to describe colloids. One of them is "colloidal suspensions," which emphasizes that the particles are suspended in the medium and don't settle out. Other synonyms include "particulate systems," "microemulsions," and "hydrated particles." The term "emulsions" is also sometimes used to describe colloidal mixtures where one phase is liquid. Another synonym for colloids is "dispersions," which emphasizes that the particles are dispersed or spread out within the medium. Regardless of which synonym is used, all describe the same basic type of mixture - one with tiny particles suspended in a medium.