sandpaper

American  

[sand-pey-per] / ˈsændˌpeɪ pər /

noun

1. strong paper coated with a layer of sand or other abrasive, used for smoothing or polishing.

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verb (used with object)

1. to smooth or polish with or as if with sandpaper.

sandpaper British  

/ ˈsændˌpeɪpə /

noun

1. (formerly) a strong paper coated with sand for smoothing and polishing

2. a common name for glasspaper

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verb

1. (tr) to polish or grind (a surface) with or as if with sandpaper

Etymology

Origin of sandpaper

First recorded in 1815–25; sand + paper

Explanation

Sandpaper is a special thick paper with a rough, abrasive surface. Painters will often sand a wall with sandpaper before painting it. Woodworkers use sandpaper to smooth wooden surfaces, and sandpaper is also useful for removing loose paint, grit, or dirt when you're painting or refinishing something. Sandpaper is thought to have been invented in thirteenth century China, from a crushed substance, often shells or sand, that was glued to parchment with natural gum. In the 1800s, a similar product called "glass paper" was made from crushed glass, which, despite its name, is sometimes still used in today's sandpaper.

Example Sentences

Even though the sponge feels soft, its internal structure acts like extremely fine sandpaper.

From Science Daily • Apr. 18, 2026

It took a lot to bestir Angelenos from their bungalows and Buicks, but their throats felt like sandpaper, and their chests hurt like the blazes.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

Certainly the high jinks have caught the attention of those in Australia, who have put the sandpaper down long enough to have their say on England's morals.

From BBC • Jul. 30, 2025

“Hard Truths” is sublime and soft in the way that a rough surface is smoothed to the touch by sandpaper.

From Salon • Jan. 10, 2025

I used every kind of soap within reach, Lifebuoy, Ivory, plus a local, rustic brand that felt like sandpaper.

From "Middlesex: A Novel" by Jeffrey Eugenides