gray scale

noun

: a series of regularly spaced tones ranging from black to white through intermediate shades of gray
also : an image composed solely of gray scale tones
grayscale
ˈgrā-ˌskāl How to pronounce gray scale (audio)
adjective

Examples of gray scale in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Bouillabaisse à la Marseillaise, in gray scale, color, and simulating the most common form of color blindness (based on daltonlens.org). — Isabel Gauthier, Discover Magazine, 21 Sep. 2024 Bedtime mode will also automatically dim your screen and switch from color to gray scale on some phones. — Simon Hill, WIRED, 7 Feb. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1939, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gray scale was circa 1939

Rhymes for gray scale

See All Rhymes for gray scale

Browse Nearby Words

gray scab
gray scale
gray seal

Cite this Entry

“Gray scale.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gray%20scale. Accessed 28 Mar. 2025.

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