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.