emery

[ em-uh-ree, em-ree ]

noun
  1. a granular mineral substance consisting typically of corundum mixed with magnetite or hematite, used powdered, crushed, or consolidated for grinding and polishing.

Origin of emery

1
1475–85; <Middle French emeri,Old French esmeril<Vulgar Latin *smēriculum, equivalent to Medieval Greek smêri (for Greek smýris rubbing powder; akin to smear) + Latin -culum-cule2

Words Nearby emery

Other definitions for Emery (2 of 2)

Emery
[ em-uh-ree, em-ree ]

noun
  1. a male or female given name.

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How to use emery in a sentence

British Dictionary definitions for emery

emery

/ (ˈɛmərɪ) /


noun
    • a hard greyish-black mineral consisting of corundum with either magnetite or haematite: used as an abrasive and polishing agent, esp as a coating on paper, cloth, etc. Formula: Al 2 O 3

    • (as modifier): emery paper

Origin of emery

1
C15: from Old French esmeril, ultimately from Greek smuris powder for rubbing

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