Meaning & Definition of word "Gray"
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Gray
ɡreɪ
noun:
- 1. A color that is a mixture of black and white.
- Example: The walls were painted in a soft gray that complemented the furniture.
- 2. An area lacking in sharp distinction, typically between good and bad or true and false.
- Example: In moral dilemmas, there can be a lot of gray areas to consider.
adjective:
- 1. Of a color intermediate between black and white, as of ashes or an overcast sky.
- Example: The sky turned gray before the storm arrived.
- 2. Lacking color or brightness; dull.
- Example: He wore a gray suit that blended in with the dreary surroundings.
- 3. Having white and black hairs intermixed, often referring to aging hair.
- Example: Her hair was turning gray, a sign of her wisdom and experience.
Etymology
Middle English 'grei', from Old English 'grǣg'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
gray area:
A situation or topic that is not clearly defined and has ambiguities.
gray matter:
Brain tissue; also refers to intellectual capacity.
the gray lady:
A term often used to refer to a newspaper, particularly The New York Times.
Related Words
greyhound:
a breed of dog known for its speed and elegance.
grayish:
somewhat gray in color.
grayscale:
a range of shades from black to white, without color.
Slang Meanings of gray
Meaning: Gray market
Example Sentence: Buying designer goods from unauthorized retailers is often referred to as gray market purchasing.
Meaning: Gray hair
Example Sentence: She embraced her gray hair as a badge of maturity.