Using verbal labels to describe perceived objects helps memory retention as it draws attention to the named features. Research shows that those labeling benefits are stronger when the label describes a feature specifically rather than generally (“RED” rather than “WARM”). In our project we investigate whether this benefit might be at the cost of overlooking commonalities between items belonging to the same category. In our experiments we ask participants to memorize lists of colored objects drawn from different categories (e.g., instruments, animals, vehicles, clothing, furniture). In the similar-color condition, objects from the same category are presented in hues of the same color category. In the dissimilar-color condition, there is no overlap in colors for same-category objects. In Experiment 1 we manipulate the presentation of labels together with the objects in two conditions: specific labels (“green APPLE”) vs general labels (“green FRUIT”). Color memory is subsequently probed in a color-reproduction test, wherein previously presented objects filled with gray are presented, and their color is to be selected from a color wheel. In Experiment 2 we extend this design by adding a control, articulatory suppression, condition, and in Experiment 3 we present additional foils- exemplars of the categories presented during the learning phase- at test to further examine if general labels facilitate establishing bonds between colors and categories. Our results suggest that the labels referring to the objects’ categories bring more benefits than object-specific ones when the colors are grouped along categories, yet color-grouping itself might overshadow the effects of verbal labeling.