Definition

Having a color similar to slate, which is a grayish-blue or bluish-gray shade.

Example

The walls were painted a slatey color that matched the furniture perfectly.

Conversation

I just painted my room a nice slatey blue.

That sounds really calming! I love that color.

Yeah, it reminds me of the ocean on a cloudy day.

Exactly! It gives off such a peaceful vibe.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Slatey → The word 'slatey' is derived from 'slate' (from Old French *esclate*, meaning a type of rock or thin layer) and the suffix '-y' (meaning characterized by or having the quality of). Thus, 'slatey' describes something that has the characteristics of slate, typically referring to a grayish color or texture resembling that of slate rock.

Memory Tip

Think of 'slate' as a type of rock that is gray and flat, and remember that 'slatey' means something that has the qualities or characteristics of slate.

Visually Confused Words