grindstone

noun

grind·​stone ˈgrīn(d)-ˌstōn How to pronounce grindstone (audio)
1
2
: a flat circular stone of natural sandstone that revolves on an axle and is used for grinding, shaping, or smoothing

Illustration of grindstone

Illustration of grindstone
  • grindstone 2

Examples of grindstone in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web In the cellar, archaeologists unearthed a portable grindstone in two pieces. Moira Ritter, Miami Herald, 26 Jan. 2024 The donkeys pushed a grindstone, while the workers added grain, monitored the process and collected flour. Julia Binswanger, Smithsonian Magazine, 12 Dec. 2023 While diligent effort has its place, knowing when to step back from the grindstone and sniff out other options can be transformative. Tarot Astrologers, Chicago Tribune, 9 Aug. 2023 Putting their nose to the grindstone every day rather than the really wealthy people. Laura Johnston, cleveland, 23 Aug. 2023 There are months to put your nose to the grindstone, and months to give yourself over to play. Steph Koyfman, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 July 2023 Indianapolis Star South Knox put its nose to the grindstone and turned back Northeast Dubois in a 9-6 decision for an Indiana high school baseball victory on April 25. Indy Star Sports, The Indianapolis Star, 26 Apr. 2023 Nose to the grindstone, the brand has been hard at work creating some of the most distinctive cultivars on the market. Lindsey Bartlett, Forbes, 20 Apr. 2023 He’s had his nose to the grindstone all his life. Matt Wake | Mwake@al.com, al, 15 Apr. 2021

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'grindstone.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of grindstone was in the 13th century

Dictionary Entries Near grindstone

Cite this Entry

“Grindstone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/grindstone. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

grindstone

noun
grind·​stone ˈgrīn-ˌstōn How to pronounce grindstone (audio)
: a stone disk that turns on an axle and is used for grinding or sharpening

More from Merriam-Webster on grindstone

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