I. ˈgrit noun
Etymology: Middle English grete, from Old English grēot; akin to Old High German grioz sand
Date: before 12th century
1.
a. : sand , gravel
b. : a hard sharp granule (as of sand) ; also : material (as many abrasives) composed of such granules
2. : any of several sandstones
3.
a. : the structure of a stone that adapts it to grinding
b. : the size of abrasive particles usually expressed as their mesh
4. : firmness of mind or spirit : unyielding courage in the face of hardship or danger
5. capitalized : a Liberal in Canadian politics
II. verb
( grit·ted ; grit·ting )
Date: 1762
intransitive verb
: to give forth a grating sound
transitive verb
1. : to cause (as one's teeth) to grind or grate
2. : to cover or spread with grit ; especially : to smooth (as marble) with a coarse abrasive