adv. phr. 1. Across rather than with the direction of the fibers (as of wood or meat). He sandpapered the wood against the grain. 2. So as to annoy or trouble, or to cause anger or dislike. Usually follows "go". His coarse and rude ways went against the grain with me. It went against the grain with him to have to listen to her gossip.
Compare: RUB THE WRONG WAY.