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emery Definition

em·ery (em′ər ē)

noun

a dark, impure, coarse variety of corundum used for grinding, polishing, etc.

Etymology: Fr émeri < OFr emeril < It smeriglio < MGr smeri, for Gr smyris, emery < IE base *smer-, smear

emery Synonyms

emery

n.

grinder, wheel, sharpener, Carborundum (trademark), corundum, emery paper, emery board, emery cloth, sandpaper, garnet paper.

emery Usage Examples

Modifies a noun

  • cloth: The final coat can be rubbed with dampened emery cloth for a fine, soft, matte finish.
  • board: An emery board should not be used to scrape your natural nail surface at all.
  • paper: Emery paper / cloth An abrasive paper or cloth used for smoothing metal.
  • wheel: They are then shaped on a rough emery wheel.
  • strip: A final light turn with the emery strip removes the swarf.

Noun used with modifier

fine: To remedy this use fine emery paper on the insides of the blades to remove the residue.