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abrasive

[uh-brey-siv, -ziv] / əˈbreɪ sɪv, -zɪv /


NOUN
substance for polishing
Synonyms
STRONGEST
STRONG


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

NWR’s high concepts and their abrasive execution don’t always coalesce.

From Salon Aug. 17, 2026

Mr. Sessa, who played the lead role of an abrasive prep-school student in “The Holdovers” and an abrasive magician in “Now You See Me: Now You Don’t,” is settling into a specialty.

From The Wall Street Journal Aug. 6, 2026

But what is it about the sound of someone scrolling on loud that I find so abrasive when any city or bus is already a cacophony of competing sounds?

From BBC Aug. 5, 2026

Altman's unassuming, friendly demeanor contrasted sharply with Musk's abrasive style, but they shared an entrepreneurial spirit and a penchant for risk-taking.

From Barron's Apr. 24, 2026

My brother has never known how to get anyone’s attention without being abrasive and blunt and loud.

From "Starfish" by Akemi Dawn Bowman

Safety and industrial sales increased 4.1%, as strong demand in electrical markets, adhesives and abrasives offset continued challenges in the vehicle aftermarket business.

From MarketWatch Oct. 21, 2025

They also advise against using thinners, nylon or metal scrubbers, or abrasives - all of which could damage the surface of the toilet seat.

From BBC Dec. 30, 2024

He also said a robot would be able to use "tougher, more aggressive abrasives" than a human could tolerate.

From Science Daily May 2, 2024

The modern sandpaper you see at hardware and paint stores is made from a combination of natural and man-made abrasives.

From Seattle Times Aug. 28, 2023

Engineers and other craftsmen make extensive use of abrasion, effected by the aid of such abrasives as emery and carborundum, in shaping, finishing and polishing their work.

From The Project Gutenberg Encyclopedia Volume 1 of 28 by Project Gutenberg




Vocabulary lists containing abrasive


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