First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1grate
verb \ˈgrāt\
grat·edgrat·ing
Definition of GRATE
transitive verb
1
archaic : abrade
2
: to reduce to small particles by rubbing on something rough <grate cheese>
4
a : to gnash or grind noisily b : to cause to make a rasping sound c : to utter in a harsh voice
intransitive verb
1
: to rub or rasp noisily
2
: to cause irritation : jar <a voice that grates on the nerves>
— grat·er noun
— grat·ing·ly \ˈgrā-tiŋ-lē\ adverb
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Origin of GRATE
Middle English, from Anglo-French grater to scratch, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German krazzōn to scratch
2grate
noun
: a metal frame with bars across it that is used in a fireplace or to cover an opening
Full Definition of GRATE
1
a : a barred frame for cooking over a fire b : a frame or bed of iron bars to hold a stove or furnace fire c : fireplace
2
: grating 2
See grate defined for English-language learners
See grate defined for kids
Origin of GRATE
Middle English, from Medieval Latin crata, grata hurdle, alteration of Latin cratis — more at hurdle
First Known Use: 14th century
3grate
verb
grat·edgrat·ing
Definition of GRATE
transitive verb
: to furnish with a grate
First Known Use of GRATE
1547
GRATE[2] Defined for Kids
1grate
verb \ˈgrāt\
grat·edgrat·ing
Definition of GRATE for Kids
1
: to break into small pieces by rubbing against something rough <grate cheese>
2
: to grind or rub against something with a harsh noise
3
: to have an irritating effect <His voice grates on me.>
2grate
noun
Definition of GRATE for Kids
1
: a frame containing parallel or crossed bars (as in a window)
2
: a frame of iron bars to hold a fire
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