| Noun | 1. | Cologne - a commercial center and river port in western Germany on the Rhine River; flourished during the 15th century as a member of the Hanseatic LeagueHanseatic League - a commercial and defensive confederation of free cities in northern Germany and surrounding areas; formed in the 13th century and most powerful in the 14th century city, metropolis, urban center - a large and densely populated urban area; may include several independent administrative districts; "Ancient Troy was a great city" | |