How Do You Spell GRINDSTONE?

Pronunciation: [ɡɹˈa͡ɪndstə͡ʊn] (IPA)

The word "grindstone" is spelled with a "d" and not a "t" in the middle, despite what its pronunciation might suggest. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈɡraɪndstoʊn/, with an "ai" sound as in "eye" followed by a clear "d" sound. This accurate spelling of the word reflects its origins as an old English compound word "grinde" (meaning "to sharpen") and "stan" (meaning "stone"). So next time someone says "grindstone" without the "d", you can confidently correct their spelling.

GRINDSTONE Meaning and Definition

1. A grindstone refers to a typically round or cylindrical object made of natural or artificial abrasive material that is used primarily for sharpening or polishing various tools and objects. It is commonly composed of strong and durable materials such as sandstone, emery, or carborundum, imparting notable abrasive qualities to its surface.

   Traditionally, a grindstone is fixed to a mechanical apparatus, such as a wheel or axle, facilitating rotational movement. It operates through manual force exerted by an individual upon the tool or object that needs sharpening, and contacts the grindstone's surface to gradually whet or polish it. The pressure applied and the sharpening technique depend on the specific requirements of the tool.

   Grindstones are widely used in a multitude of industrial and domestic applications. They are essential for sharpening blades, knives, axes, chisels, scissors, and other cutting tools, restoring their cutting edge and ensuring optimal functionality. In addition to tool sharpening, grindstones are employed to remove rust, paint, and other unwanted materials from surfaces. They can also refine and polish jewelry, sculptures, and other artistic objects.

   Beyond their functional purposes, grindstones have societal and cultural significance. Metaphorically, the term "grindstone" is associated with hard work, perseverance, and dedication in the pursuit of a task or goal. It symbolizes the relentless effort and repetition required to achieve excellence. Overall, the grindstone is a versatile and vital tool, serving practical, symbolic, and historical purposes across various domains.

2. A flat circular piece of sandstone for sharpening tools.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for GRINDSTONE

• grandsone
• frindstone
• vrindstone
• brindstone
• hrindstone
• yrindstone
• trindstone
• geindstone
• gdindstone
• gryndstone
• grittstone
• gryndstons
• grandstle

Etymology of GRINDSTONE

The word "grindstone" has its origins in Old English. It is a compound word formed from the elements "grind", meaning to crush or to reduce to powder, and "stone", referring to the material that is used for grinding. The term can be traced back to the early Germanic languages and its roots can be found in the Old High German word "grintstein" and Old Norse word "grindsteinn". Over time, the word "grindstone" has remained relatively unchanged in terms of its etymology and meaning.

Idioms with the word GRINDSTONE

• keep/put your nose to the grindstone The idiom "keep/put your nose to the grindstone" means to work hard and diligently, focusing on the tasks at hand with dedication and persistence. It implies a strong work ethic, perseverance, and the willingness to put in sustained effort to achieve a goal.
• put nose to the grindstone The idiom "put nose to the grindstone" means to work very hard and diligently, often in a focused and determined manner. It suggests the idea of applying oneself diligently to a task or responsibility without stopping or getting distracted.
• keep nose to the grindstone The idiom "keep one's nose to the grindstone" means to work diligently, stay focused and apply oneself consistently to a task or responsibility. It suggests the idea of perseverance, dedication, and maintaining a strong work ethic.
• keep your nose to the grindstone To keep your nose to the grindstone means to work diligently and persistently, often with a sense of dedication and focus. It implies staying committed and focused on a task or goal, without getting distracted or losing sight of the work at hand. The phrase is often used to emphasize the importance of hard work and perseverance.
• put one's nose to the grindstone The idiom "put one's nose to the grindstone" means to work diligently and intensely, usually for a long period of time, in order to achieve a goal or complete a task. It implies putting in significant effort, concentration, and perseverance, often despite difficulties or challenges. The phrase comes from the image of a grindstone, a stone wheel used for sharpening tools, where one would be required to lean over and focus closely on the task at hand.
• keep one's nose to the grindstone The idiom "keep one's nose to the grindstone" means to work hard and diligently, often with a focused and determined effort, without getting distracted or losing motivation. It implies putting in consistent and dedicated efforts towards a particular task or goal.
• nose to the grindstone The idiom "nose to the grindstone" means to work hard and diligently, usually with focused and determined effort. It implies being committed to a task or goal and putting forth continuous effort to achieve it, often disregarding any distractions or discomfort.
• nose to the grindstone, keep one's To keep one's nose to the grindstone means to work diligently and persistently on a task or job. It implies staying focused, dedicated, and committed to achieving a goal, despite challenges or difficulties. The phrase alludes to the image of a grinder, where one would sharpen tools by pressing their nose against a rotating grindstone, requiring intense concentration and effort.

Similar spelling words for GRINDSTONE

• grind organ,
• Grindelia,
• granato,
• ground-shaker,
• grenadine,
• grandson,
• grenadian,
• grenade,
• granados,
• groundnut,
• grindle,
• Granado,
• grounder,
• Grandison,
• grantor,
• grandstand,
• grindstaff,
• grind down,
• ground snake,
• grand tour,
• Grand Teton,
• grandstaff,
• grind out,
• ground sloth,
• ground swell,
• ground pine,
• grounds,
• ground state,
• grinder,
• grandstander.

Plural form of GRINDSTONE is GRINDSTONES