grizzly
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈɡrɪzli/
KK: /ˈɡrɪzli/
adjective
Definition
Having a grayish color or being mixed with gray.
Example
The grizzly bear has a distinctive fur that appears grizzled due to its grayish tips.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: grizzlier
Superlative: grizzliest
Conversation
I just saw a dog with a really grizzly coat at the park.
Oh wow, that sounds interesting! Was it big?
Yeah, it was huge and had such a unique grizzly look to it.
I love dogs with that kind of fur; they always look so majestic.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
grayish
ashen
dull
Antonyms
vivid
bright
colorful
noun
Definition
A large, powerful bear with a distinctive hump on its back, known for its brown fur and often found in North America.
Example
We saw a grizzly while hiking in the national park.
Conversation
Did you hear about the grizzly bear spotted in the park?
Yeah, I saw that on the news!
It's crazy how close it got to the city.
Root Explanation
Grizzly comes from the word 'grizzled' (from Old French *gris*, meaning gray), which refers to the grayish color of the bear's fur. The term 'grizzly' describes the bear's distinctive appearance, particularly its grizzled fur.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'gray' ('gris') to remember that 'grizzly' refers to the bear with grayish fur.
Visually Confused Words
frizzly
drizzly
frizzily