Pronunciation: [ɡɹˈɪzə͡l] (IPA) 
The word "grizzle" is spelled with two Z's, despite its pronunciation with an S sound. This is due to its origin from the Old French word "grisel," which was spelled with a Z, and was used to describe a gray color. The pronunciation of "grizzle" is phonetically transcribed as /ˈɡrɪzəl/. The word can be used as a verb to describe someone who complains or grumbles incessantly, or as an adjective to describe a gray or streaked color.
Grizzle is a term used primarily as a verb to describe the act of complaining or expressing dissatisfaction in a persistent and nagging manner. It often implies a continuous and grating voice tone when someone is voicing their complaints or grievances. To grizzle is to whine, whimper, grumble, or moan about something repeatedly, often making the same complaints over and over again. This term is commonly associated with children who are unhappy or dissatisfied and resort to constant whining or crying. However, grizzling can also be applied to adults who persistently voice their discontent or criticisms in a petulant or annoying manner.
In the context of appearance, grizzle can also be used as an adjective or noun to describe a coat color in animals, particularly dogs or horses. Grizzle refers to a mixture of gray and brown hairs intermingled within the coat, creating a mottled or streaked appearance. It is often characterized by random patches of light and dark hairs, which creates a unique and distinctive pattern. This term is commonly used in the field of animal breeding and genetics to describe specific coat patterns or colors.
Overall, grizzle encompasses both a behavioral and visual aspect, highlighting the act of complaining or expressing discontent as well as the description of a particular coat coloration in animals.
A mixture of white and black; a grey colour.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "grizzle" has its origins in Middle English. It is derived from the Old English word "grisel", which means "gray". This Old English term ultimately traces back to the Old High German word "grisal", meaning "gray-haired" or "gray". The modern use of "grizzle" arose in the 16th century to refer to hair or fur that is streaked or mixed with gray. Over time, the term has been extended to describe a grayish color or hue in various contexts.
