Meaning & Definition of word "Grate"
Grate
/ɡreɪt/
noun:
- 1. A frame of bars that allows air to flow through while preventing larger objects from passing.
- Example: The fireplace was equipped with a metal grate to hold the logs.
- 2. A device with a rough surface used for shredding food.
- Example: He used the box grater to prepare carrots for the salad.
verb:
- 1. To reduce (food) to small shreds by being rubbed on a grater or a rough surface.
- Example: She decided to grate some cheese for the pasta.
- 2. To cause irritation or annoyance.
- Example: The constant noise from the construction site began to grate on her nerves.
Etymology
●Middle English 'grate', from Old French 'grater', from Latin 'grattare' meaning 'to scratch'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
grate on someone's nerves:
To annoy or irritate someone.
grates against:
To clash or conflict with someone's principles or feelings.
Related Words
grater:
A kitchen utensil used for grating food.
grating:
The action of shredding or scraping something.
grated:
Food that has been shredded using a grater.
Slang Meanings of grate
Meaning: To annoy someone immensely.
● Example Sentence: His constant bragging really grates.
Meaning: To critique someone harshly.
● Example Sentence: The critics really grated on his performance.