Meaning & Definition of word "Grits"

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    Grits

    /ɡrɪts/

    noun:

    • 1. Coarsely ground corn, typically used in Southern U.S. cuisine, often served as a side dish.
      • Example: For breakfast, she made a bowl of creamy grits topped with butter and cheese.
    • 2. A type of grit or granule, particularly in reference to small particles of sand or stone.
      • Example: The construction worker sifted through the grits to find the suitable materials for the mix.
    • 3. Courage, determination, or resolve; strength of character.
      • Example: It takes a lot of grits to stand up for what you believe in.

    verb:

    • 1. To grind (corn) into grits.
      • Example: They decided to grit their own corn to ensure the freshest possible dish.

    Etymology

    Derived from the Middle English 'grit' meaning 'coarse meal'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    shrimp and grits:

    A popular Southern dish combining shrimp and a creamy cornmeal base.

    gritty determination:

    The quality of being courageous and persistent.

    grit one's teeth:

    To clench one's teeth in determination or frustration.

    Related Words

    gritty:

    Having a rough texture, or displaying courage.

    cornmeal:

    Meal produced from dried corn, used in cooking.

    cowardice:

    Lack of bravery; the opposite of grit.

    Slang Meanings of grits

    Meaning: To have a strong sense of determination.

    Example Sentence: You've got to have some serious grits to finish that marathon.

    Meaning: Street smarts or toughness.

    Example Sentence: He may look soft, but he's got grit when it comes to handling himself.