Meaning & Definition of word "Grey"
Grey
/ɡreɪ/
noun:
- 1. A color belonging to the achromatic color of any lightness between the extremes of black and white.
- Example: The painting was filled with shades of grey.
- 2. A person or thing that is ambiguous, as in having both good and bad qualities.
- Example: In her story, the hero is painted in shades of grey rather than just good or evil.
verb:
- 1. To make or become grey.
- Example: Her hair began to grey as she aged.
adjective:
- 1. Of a color intermediate between black and white, as of ashes or an overcast sky.
- Example: The sky was a dull grey before the storm.
- 2. Having a color like that of smoke or ash; drab or dull.
- Example: She wore a grey sweater that matched her mood.
- 3. Indeterminate in quality; ambiguous or vague.
- Example: The issue was not black and white, but rather a grey area of ethics.
Etymology
●Old English 'græg'
Common Phrases and Expressions
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.
Related Words
gray:
An alternative spelling of 'grey', used primarily in American English.
grayscale:
A range of shades of gray without distinct color.
Slang Meanings of grey
Meaning: Used to describe someone who is boring or lacking excitement.
● Example Sentence: He's such a grey character, never does anything fun.
Meaning: In relation to fashion, refers to a neutral or bland outfit.
● Example Sentence: She wore a grey outfit to the party, blending in completely.