Grayhaired

Grayhaired is a term used to describe a person whose hair contains gray or white strands. It is most commonly written as gray-haired in American English or grey-haired in British English; grayhaired, as a single unhyphenated form, is rare and typically found only in specific stylistic contexts or as a keyword. In everyday usage, gray-haired serves as an adjective for people or as a noun phrase like a gray-haired elder.

Graying results from a progressive reduction in pigment production within hair follicles. This change is strongly influenced by genetics and age, with many individuals beginning to show gray hair in midlife, though the onset varies widely. Other factors—such as smoking, certain health conditions, stress, and nutritional status—can affect the rate and pattern of graying. Some people experience uniform graying, while others develop patches or selectively colored strands.

Culturally, gray hair has varied symbolism. It is often associated with aging, experience, and wisdom in literature and media, though contemporary fashion frequently treats gray hair as a deliberate aesthetic choice. Societal attitudes toward gray hair differ by culture and over time, shaping how individuals perceive and manage their hair color. Many people choose to embrace natural gray hair, while others opt for dyeing or coloring to cover or modify the shade.

See also: hair color, aging, genetics of hair color.