Gray
Online color picker to view shades, tints, color codes, and complementary colors
In most cultures, gray is linked to old age and elderliness, particularly due to the association with gray hair; it symbolizes the dignity and wisdom that comes with age. The hex code for gray is #808080.
About Gray
Pencil lead worn smooth on cheap paper
What does gray mean?
Gray often signals neutrality and compromise, and it commonly reads as the calm middle ground between two louder choices. With no color at all and a lightness right between white and black, it feels steady, flat, and even.
Where you see gray
- pencil lead
- storm clouds
- concrete
- asphalt
- duct tape
- cast iron skillets
What it works for
It works well as a backdrop that lets stronger colors carry a design without competing for attention.
What colors go with gray?
Dusty Rose #b56f76The pink's faded warmth softens the gray's flatness without breaking its muted mood.Burnt Orange #cc5500A hot, earthy orange cuts through the neutrality and gives the page a clear focal point.Sage #9caf88Both colors stay quiet and dusty, so the pair reads gentle and coordinated.Mustard #ffdb58The yellow's strong saturation pops hard against a background with none of its own.
Questions about Gray
What is the hex code for Gray?
Gray is #808080. In RGB that is rgb(128, 128, 128), in HSL hsl(0, 0%, 50%) and in CMYK 0%, 0%, 0%, 50%.
Is Gray readable on white or black?
Gray has a 3.94:1 contrast ratio on white and 5.31:1 on black. WCAG asks for 4.5:1 for body text and 3:1 for large text, so on white it works only for large text (24px, or 18.5px bold) and on black it works for body text. Try other pairs in the contrast checker.