First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1rasp
verb \ˈrasp\
: to speak in a way that sounds rough or harsh
: to make a rough, harsh sound
: to rub (something) with a rough object or substance
Full Definition of RASP
transitive verb
1
: to rub with something rough; specifically : to abrade with a rasp
2
: to grate upon : irritate
3
: to utter in a raspy tone
intransitive verb
1
: scrape
2
: to produce a grating sound
— rasp·er noun
— rasp·ing·ly \ˈras-piŋ-lē\ adverb
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Origin of RASP
Middle English, from Anglo-French *rasper, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German raspōn to scrape together
2rasp
noun
: a metal tool that has sharp points and that is used to make rough surfaces smooth
: a rough, harsh sound
Full Definition of RASP
1
: a coarse file with cutting points instead of lines
2
: something used for rasping
3
a : an act of rasping b : a rasping sound, sensation, or effect
See rasp defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of RASP
circa 1512
RASPING Defined for Kids
1rasp
verb \ˈrasp\
raspedrasp·ing
Definition of RASP for Kids
1
: to say with or make a harsh sound <“Who was it?” I rasped, holding my breath. — Mildred D. Taylor, Roll of Thunder>
2
: to rub with or as if with a rough object or substance <I rasped off the rough edges.>
2rasp
noun
Definition of RASP for Kids
1
: a harsh sound or sensation
2
: a coarse file used for shaping or smoothing
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