Word

grind

verb C1

/ˈɡɹaɪnd/

Meanings

verb

to crush something into small pieces or powder by rubbing or pressing it, often using a tool or machine

verb

to work very hard for a long time, especially on difficult or repetitive tasks

noun

a harsh scraping sound or feeling caused by two hard surfaces rubbing together

Definition

To grind is to crush something into smaller pieces or to work steadily and relentlessly at a difficult task.

To grind can mean to break a substance into fine particles by crushing or rubbing it, often using a machine or tool. It can also describe working hard over a long period, especially on repetitive or demanding tasks. In another common use, it refers to two hard surfaces rubbing together with a harsh, scraping sound. The context usually makes it clear which meaning is intended.

Examples

I grind whole spices just before cooking because the aroma is noticeably sharper.
She had to grind for months to get her research article ready for publication.
They could hear the grind of the gears as the old elevator struggled to start.
You grind the beans too fine for that filter, so the coffee tastes over-extracted.

Common mistake

Learners often confuse grind with ground, forgetting that ground is the past tense and past participle (e.g., “I ground the pepper,” not “I grind the pepper yesterday”).