grind

Definition

To reduce to smaller pieces by crushing with lateral motion.

Etymology

From Middle English grynden, from Old English grindan, from Proto-West Germanic *grindan, from Proto-Germanic *grindaną. Cognate with Saterland Frisian gríende, griene (“to grind, mill”), Dutch grinden (“to grind”, rare) and grind (“gravel, shingle”), Albanian grind (“to brawl, fight”).

Example Sentences

• "grind a lens; grind an axe"
• "This corn grinds well."
• "Steel grinds to a sharp edge."