Gritting: meaning, definitions and examples

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gritting

 

[ ˈɡrɪtɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

physical action

Gritting refers to the action of spreading grit, typically a mixture of sand and salt, onto roads or surfaces to improve traction in icy or snowy conditions. This practice is crucial for maintaining safety on roadways during winter weather.

Synonyms

graveling, salting, spreading

Examples of usage

  • The city worker was gritting the roads after the snowfall.
  • They will be gritting the streets to prevent accidents.
  • We need to start gritting before the next storm hits.

Translations

Translations of the word "gritting" in other languages:

🇵🇹 moagem

🇮🇳 किसी चीज़ को चीरना

🇩🇪 knirschen

🇮🇩 menggerinda

🇺🇦 скрегіт

🇵🇱 szczotkowanie

🇯🇵 きしむ

🇫🇷 grincer

🇪🇸 chirriar

🇹🇷 gıcırdatma

🇰🇷 삑삑거리다

🇸🇦 صريف

🇨🇿 skřípání

🇸🇰 skripec

🇨🇳 吱吱声

🇸🇮 škripanje

🇮🇸 skrapa

🇰🇿 сызық

🇬🇪 ქვიშის ხახუნი

🇦🇿 sıxma

🇲🇽 chirriar

Etymology

The term 'gritting' derives from the Old English word 'grît,' which initially referred to a grainy substance or sand. It was used in the context of various applications, including construction and agriculture. Over time, the meaning evolved to encompass covering surfaces, specifically roads, with grit or salt to enhance grip and safety during adverse weather conditions. The practice of gritting roads became especially common in regions that experience harsh winters, as it significantly reduces the risk of slipping and accidents on icy roads. The word has since become prominent in discussions surrounding winter weather preparedness and road maintenance.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,742 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.