Grindstone: meaning, definitions and examples

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grindstone

[ˈɡraɪndˌstoʊn ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

sharpening tool

A grindstone is a revolving stone disk used for grinding, sharpening, or polishing metal tools.

Synonyms

grinding wheel, sharpening stone.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
grindstone	Used to describe a tool used to sharpen or shape objects, often in a figurative sense to imply hard work and perseverance. He keeps his nose to the grindstone to finish the project on time. The old blacksmith used a grindstone to sharpen his tools.
grinding wheel	Commonly refers to a wheel made of abrasive material used for grinding and cutting materials, typically in industrial or workshop settings. The carpenter replaced the grinding wheel on his machine to shape the wood more precisely. Safety goggles should always be worn when working with a grinding wheel.
sharpening stone	Used to describe a tool specifically for sharpening knives, scissors, and other cutting instruments, usually in more domestic or culinary settings. The chef used a sharpening stone to hone his knives before dinner service. A good sharpening stone can keep your kitchen knives in top condition.

Word

Description / Examples

grindstone

Used to describe a tool used to sharpen or shape objects, often in a figurative sense to imply hard work and perseverance.

He keeps his nose to the grindstone to finish the project on time.
The old blacksmith used a grindstone to sharpen his tools.

grinding wheel

Commonly refers to a wheel made of abrasive material used for grinding and cutting materials, typically in industrial or workshop settings.

The carpenter replaced the grinding wheel on his machine to shape the wood more precisely.
Safety goggles should always be worn when working with a grinding wheel.

sharpening stone

Used to describe a tool specifically for sharpening knives, scissors, and other cutting instruments, usually in more domestic or culinary settings.

The chef used a sharpening stone to hone his knives before dinner service.
A good sharpening stone can keep your kitchen knives in top condition.

Examples of usage

The blacksmith used a grindstone to sharpen his tools.
She placed the knife against the grindstone to sharpen it.
The grindstone spun rapidly as the metal blade was sharpened.
The apprentice learned how to use the grindstone to sharpen the tools effectively.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'grindstone' comes from the Old English 'grindan', meaning 'to grind', and 'stan', meaning 'stone'.
This term has been used since the 14th century, often referring to a stone used to sharpen tools.
It’s believed that the concept of using stones for sharpening goes back thousands of years to ancient craftspeople.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, the grindstone symbolizes hard work and diligence, as sharpening tools was essential for tasks.
The phrase 'keeping your nose to the grindstone' illustrates the importance of perseverance in work and education.
In folklore, the grindstone is sometimes depicted alongside blacksmiths who are depicted as diligent craftsmen.

Science & Technology

Modern grindstones can be made from materials such as aluminum oxide or silicon carbide for efficient tool sharpening.
The invention of powered grindstones, like bench grinders, revolutionized industries, increasing sharpening speed and precision.
The abrasiveness of grinding wheels can vary, which affects the sharpening process and the finish quality of tools.

Literature

In literature, grindstones are often mentioned in tales involving craftsmanship, symbolizing the effort needed to hone skills.
Charles Dickens used grindstones metaphorically to illustrate characters' commitment to their trades and pursuits.
Grindstones are used in various poems and stories to reflect themes of struggle and the sharpening of one’s character through hard experiences.

Idioms and Expressions

The idiom 'a grindstone' implies a focus on hard work, often used in phrases like 'nose to the grindstone'.
In some traditions, a grindstone is viewed as a source of renewal, representing the polishing of one's abilities.
In storytelling, characters are frequently shown using grindstones in moments of preparation or transformation.

Translations

Translations of the word "grindstone" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mó

🇮🇳 चक्की का पत्थर

🇩🇪 Schleifstein

🇮🇩 batu giling

🇺🇦 жорновий камінь

🇵🇱 osełka

🇯🇵 砥石 (といし)

🇫🇷 meule

🇪🇸 piedra de afilar

🇹🇷 biley taşı

🇰🇷 숫돌

🇸🇦 حجر الشحذ

🇨🇿 brusný kámen

🇸🇰 brúsny kameň

🇨🇳 磨刀石

🇸🇮 brusni kamen

🇮🇸 brýnistá

🇰🇿 қайрақ тас

🇬🇪 სამხეთქი ქვა

🇦🇿 biley daşı

🇲🇽 piedra de afilar