Langimage
English

abrasives

|a-bra-sives|

B2

/əˈbreɪsɪvz/

(abrasive)

rough or harsh

Base FormPluralNounNoun
abrasiveabrasivesabrasivenessabrasives
Etymology
Etymology Information

'abrasive' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'abradere,' where 'ab-' meant 'away' and 'radere' meant 'to scrape.'

Historical Evolution

'abradere' transformed into the French word 'abrasif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'abrasive' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to scrape away,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'rough or harsh.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

materials used for grinding, polishing, or cleaning a hard surface.

The factory uses abrasives to polish the metal parts.

Synonyms

Adjective 1

having a rough quality; used to describe a person or manner that is harsh or unkind.

His abrasive manner made it difficult to work with him.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/04/05 20:51