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Definitions

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.

This abrasive quality is what allows the sponge to "erase" stains.

From Science Daily • Apr. 18, 2026

When I go back, I forget how strong the sound of the airplanes are, how abrasive and all-encompassing.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 27, 2026

So abrasive are its words and affecting its tune that the agnostic and irreverent journalist H.L.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 25, 2026

With Stuart and Opoku-Fordjour both out, Borthwick has opted for the 33-year-old scrum specialist Davison and Sela's abrasive ball-carrying and mobility as possible alternatives to Heyes.

From BBC • Jan. 23, 2026

His stubbornness was something I recognized, something I’d inherited myself, though I hoped in a less abrasive form.

From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama




Vocabulary lists containing abrasive