gray
UK: ɡreɪ | US: ɡreɪ
adj. of a color intermediate between black and white
adj. dull or nondescript in character
n. the color gray
vt. to make or become gray
The word "gray" originates from Old English grǣg, which referred to the color between black and white. It shares roots with similar words in Germanic languages (e.g., German grau, Dutch grijs). Unlike many color terms, "gray" has remained remarkably stable in meaning, retaining its core association with neutrality and ambiguity. Its spelling variation ("grey" in British English) reflects regional preferences but does not alter the morpheme's integrity.
The sky turned gray before the storm.
She wore a gray suit to the interview.
His hair began to gray in his thirties.
The movie portrayed life in a gray, monotonous town.
The artist mixed black and white to create the perfect shade of gray.