GRAY MATTERS Synonyms: 56 Similar and Opposite Words

gray matter

noun

Definition of gray matter

as in sense

the ability to learn and understand or to deal with problems she's got the gray matter to figure that equation out

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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.

Recent Examples of gray matter Results showed that participants with higher plasma vitamin C levels tended to have more gray matter volume and more connectivity in their default mode network than peers who had less vitamin C circulating in their blood. — Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 10 June 2026 The cortex is composed of gray matter that’s responsible for high-level thinking, which plays a role in learning, memory, problem-solving, emotions and consciousness. — Sara Novak, Scientific American, 18 May 2026 The clearest finding is a reduction in gray matter in areas of the brain linked to empathy, understanding other people’s perspectives and social bonds, Saxbe said. — Meg Wingerter, Denver Post, 10 May 2026 The gray matter in our brains as early teenagers is actually the fullest of our lives. — Kara Alaimo, CNN Money, 28 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for gray matter

Recent Examples of Synonyms for gray matter

Noun

In its evaluation, the committee cited the film’s polished craftsmanship and the clarity of its directorial vision, pointing to the tone and mise-en-scène that sustain a sense of pressure throughout the story.

— Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 25 Aug. 2026
To channel this sense of joyful minimalism, pair a bold color with playful accents, rich textures, and meaningful décor that brings personality to the space without overwhelming it.

— Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 25 Aug. 2026

Definition of sense

Noun

An Israeli military source told CNN the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) had gathered intelligence on Turkey’s plans to deploy personnel, drones and air-defense systems at the site.

— Tal Shalev, CNN Money, 25 Aug. 2026
The dissident, Siamak Tadayon Tahmasbi, had been accused by Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence of directing terrorist plots tied to Israeli intelligence.

— Cora Engelbrecht, New Yorker, 24 Aug. 2026

Definition of intelligence

Noun

Salesforce and other software stocks have perked up over the past month, as sentiment around the group improved for a couple of reasons, including a Reuters report on take-private talks involving HR software provider Workday .

— Kevin Stankiewicz, CNBC, 27 Aug. 2026
At face value, young men exercising should not be reason to sound the alarms, and yet there is something treacherous about men in their formative years placing physical beauty as the ultimate expression of self-actualization.

— José Criales-Unzueta, Vanity Fair, 27 Aug. 2026

Definition of reason

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gray market

gray matter

grayness

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“Gray matter.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/gray%20matter. Accessed 28 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of gray matter

noun

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