amorous glance; flirtatious look
A look that signals romantic or sexual interest. Often used in the phrase 色目を使う (to make eyes at someone).
She gave him an amorous glance.
Refers to a subtle variation or nuance of a color. Less common than 色合い (いろあい) in everyday speech.
This paint has a beautiful shade.
ingratiating behavior; sycophancy
Used in the idiom 色目を使う (sense 2) meaning to curry favor or flatter someone for personal gain. Not used as a standalone noun for this meaning.
See also: 色目を使う
He is trying to get a promotion by ingratiating himself with his boss.
Compound of 色 (color, also erotic love) and 目 (eye). The 'amorous glance' sense derives from the idea of 'colorful eyes' expressing romantic interest. The 'shade of color' sense is a straightforward combination of the kanji meanings.