Grayed

The past tense and past participle of the verb 'gray,' meaning to become or make something gray in color. This color change often signifies aging, fading, or the loss of vibrancy. Figuratively, 'grayed' can also indicate a blurring or dulling of perception, memory, or emotion. It suggests a gradual process of change, reflecting a shift towards a less intense or defined state. The transformation can apply to physical objects, concepts, or abstract ideas, conveying the impact of time or external forces.

Grayed meaning with examples

• The old photograph, its colors now grayed, showed a young couple smiling brightly. Time had faded their youthful complexions and vibrant attire. The paper, fragile and brittle, bore the marks of age. The photo serves as a poignant reminder of moments past, capturing a simpler, more energetic time before the inevitable effects of years started to gray their past.
• As the storm clouds rolled in, the once vibrant sky quickly grayed, casting a somber mood over the landscape. The sunlight retreated and all around was now a dull, muted atmosphere. The contrast from sunny sky to dark, angry sky was immediate. It transformed into a monochrome palette. The approaching rain promised to bring both cleansing and a sense of nature's power.
• After years of exposure to the sun, the wooden deck had grayed, losing its original rich stain and becoming a weathered surface. Its surface was rough, worn, and reflected its time outdoors. The wood had faded and lost its new appearance. The deck's transformation mirrored its exposure to the relentless passage of time, which it stood on as a testament.
• Her memories of the event had grayed over time, becoming less vivid and more difficult to recall with accuracy. Initial excitement had faded to uncertainty over time. Now, the details, once sharp, were blurred. The precise sequence of events had been replaced with a general impression. The constant retelling, combined with the inevitable human factors blurred the once sharp memory.
• The relentless pressure and stress of his job had grayed his spirit, leaving him feeling drained and cynical. Once filled with enthusiasm, now, his initial dreams had been replaced with weariness. His outlook had changed for the worse, his once-bright ideas now muted by the weight of responsibility. His enthusiasm slowly started to fade.