Shavings: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe thin slices or pieces of material, often wood, that are removed during the process of shaping or smoothing it. Common in woodworking and crafting contexts.

• The floor was covered in shavings after he sanded down the chair leg

Refers to small pieces of wood, often used for ground cover in gardens, mulch, or as a source of fuel. It implies more utility than craftsmanship.

• We spread wood chips around the garden to keep weeds at bay

Implies bits of wood that are more rugged and less uniform, often resulting from more destructive or rougher processes like shredding or breaking. Can have a negative connotation.

• The old fence was in such disrepair that it broke into wood shreds when touched

Describes spiral-like pieces of wood, often created in carpentry or woodworking when a plane is used. These are aesthetically pleasing and often seen in traditional woodworking settings.

• The wood curls fell gracefully onto the workbench as he planed the surface

Typically used to describe very thin, curled pieces of a material, often wood or cheese, produced by shaving with a sharp tool.

• The carpenter swept the wood shavings off the floor.
• Add some chocolate shavings on top of the cake.

These are small fragments obtained by grating a material, commonly used for foods like cheese or vegetables.

• Sprinkle the grated pieces of parmesan on your pasta.
• The recipe calls for two cups of grated carrots.

Refers to slender, flat pieces cut from a larger object, often used for foods like fruits, vegetables, and meats.

• Serve the dish with thin slices of cucumber.
• He prepared thin slices of turkey for the sandwiches.

Used to refer to small pieces or fragments of something, usually suggesting a lack of order or a mixture.

• There were bits of paper scattered all over the room.
• She added bits of bacon to the salad.