Learn how to use the comparative “grayer” and superlative “grayest” with example sentences and differences.

What is the comparative form of “gray”?

The comparative form of “gray” is “grayer”.

Example

Her hair is grayer than it was last year.

Example

The sky is grayer today than it was yesterday.

What is the superlative form of “gray”?

The superlative form of “gray” is “grayest”.

Example

Among all the cats, the old cat is the grayest.

Example

The storm produced the grayest sky I've ever seen.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

'Most' and 'more' are generally not used with gray, grayer, and grayest. They’re considered regular comparatives and superlatives. The forms 'more gray' and 'most gray' are not used because they sound awkward. Instead, grayer and grayest are the correct and preferred forms to use.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

Gray does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: Gray → Grayer Superlative: Gray → Grayest

Expressions with similar meanings to “grayer”

greyer

Used in British English to describe something that is more gray in color

Example

The greyer clouds indicate that it might rain.

more gray

A slightly formal way of expressing increased grayness

Example

The more gray the sky becomes, the more likely it is to rain.

Expressions with similar meanings to “grayest”

greyest

Used in British English to describe something that is the most gray in color

Example

The greyest clouds usually bring heavy rain.

most gray

A slightly formal way of expressing the highest level of grayness

Example

The most gray days are often associated with gloomy weather.

Using than with comparative “grayer”

When using the comparative form grayer to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "Her hair is grayer than her sister's hair." Here, than is used to show that the level of grayness in 'her' hair is greater than the level of grayness in her sister's hair.

How can I use this expression in context?

“grayer” and “grayest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.

• 1. Hair

  His beard is grayer than his hair.

  His beard is grayer than his hair.

• 2. Weather

  The sky became grayer as the storm approached.

  The sky became grayer as the storm approached.

• 3. Animals

  The older dog has the grayest fur.

  The older dog has the grayest fur.

• 4. Buildings

  The abandoned house has the grayest exterior.

  The abandoned house has the grayest exterior.

• 5. Nature

  The winter landscape is grayer compared to the vibrant colors of summer.

  The winter landscape is grayer compared to the vibrant colors of summer.

Related idioms and phrases

Gray area

An unclear or undefined situation or topic.

Example

The legality of the new policy is still a gray area.

Gray matter

Refers to the brain or intelligence.

Example

He has a lot of gray matter and is very knowledgeable.

Gray hair

Hair that has turned gray due to age or stress.

Example

She started getting gray hair in her thirties.