grate Definition

grate¹
verb grated, grating

1. To cut (eg vegetables or cheese) into shreds by rubbing them against a rough or perforated surface.

Thesaurus: shred, mince, granulate, grind, pulverize.
tr & intr
2. To make, or cause something to make, a harsh grinding sound by rubbing.

Thesaurus: grind, rasp, rub, scrape, scratch, creak.

Etymology: 15c: from French grater to scrape.

Phrasal Verb: grate on someone

To irritate or annoy them.

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grate²
noun

1. A framework of iron bars for holding coal, etc in a fireplace or furnace.
2. The fireplace or furnace itself.

Etymology: 15c: from Latin grata.