gray

gray · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Of a color intermediate between black and white, as of ash or lead.

  2. 2.

    The color gray.

  3. 3.

    Dull, dreary, or characterless.

  4. 4.

    Relating to older people or aging.

Phrases & expressions

  • gray area — an ambiguous or undefined situation
  • gray matter — brain tissue; intelligence
  • gray market — the trade of goods through unofficial channels
  • the gray pound/dollar — the spending power of elderly people

Related words

Antonyms: bright, colorful
See also: ashen, grey, silver
Synonyms: ashen, grey, silvery

Etymology

From Old English grǣg, of Germanic origin. The spelling "gray" is preferred in American English, while "grey" is standard in British English.