A reference coat. For example: a thin coat of dark or tinted color applied over a primer to provide a visual check for smoothness when sanded.
A coat of different color than the other surfacing coats which serves as a guide in rubbing or sanding operations to help obtain a smooth surface without sanding through to the underlying wood or metal.
A coat of the finish cover, such as paint, which is applied prior to the final coat.
In painting, a coat similar in composition to the finish or color coat, but of a different color to help obtain complete coverage.