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Wordabulary

hoary

Pronunciation
Adjective C2 Mastery

Quick answer

Grayish white in color, especially describing hair, or very old and overly familiar.

"He stroked his hoary beard as he considered the question."

Synonyms and antonyms

Synonyms

gray-haired venerable

Usage notes

"Hoary" is also used for an idea or joke that's so old it has become a cliche, as in "a hoary old joke".

Test yourself

Which word fits the gap? "He stroked his _____ beard as he considered the question."

Answer: hoary

In your own words, what does "hoary" mean?

Grayish white in color, especially describing hair, or very old and overly familiar.

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