Grey

/ɡreɪ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A color belonging to the achromatic color of any lightness between the extremes of black and white.

The painting was filled with shades of grey.

A person or thing that is ambiguous, as in having both good and bad qualities.

In her story, the hero is painted in shades of grey rather than just good or evil.

verb

To make or become grey.

Her hair began to grey as she aged.

adjective

Of a color intermediate between black and white, as of ashes or an overcast sky.

The sky was a dull grey before the storm.

Having a color like that of smoke or ash; drab or dull.

She wore a grey sweater that matched her mood.

Indeterminate in quality; ambiguous or vague.

The issue was not black and white, but rather a grey area of ethics.

Old English 'græg'

grey area:

An ambiguous or unclear situation.

grey matter:

The brain tissue, often used metaphorically to refer to intellectual capacity.

grey skies:

Indicates a lack of sunlight, often associated with gloom.

Used to describe someone who is boring or lacking excitement.

He's such a grey character, never does anything fun.

In relation to fashion, refers to a neutral or bland outfit.

She wore a grey outfit to the party, blending in completely.