grinder

noun

grind·​er ˈgrīn-dər How to pronounce grinder (audio)
Synonyms of grindernext
1
a
: molar
b
grinders plural : teeth
2
: one that grinds
3
: a machine or device for grinding
4
5
: an athlete who succeeds through hard work and determination rather than exceptional skill

Examples of grinder in a Sentence

ordered a meatball grinder from the beach's concession stand
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The sharpening medium can be a small disk, a large wheel (like the one on the Tormek T-1), or a belt (mimicking the large belt grinders often used by professional knife sharpeners). Jesse Raub, Bon Appetit Magazine, 30 Mar. 2026 Los Dos Molinos gets its name from two chili grinders that were passed down on two sides of a family tree. Eddie Fontanez, AZCentral.com, 24 Mar. 2026 The one-time Ducks grinder has taken off in Buffalo, scoring five goals in eight games since being traded after notching just four in 60 games with the New York Rangers. Andrew Knoll, Daily News, 22 Mar. 2026 The framework must now be turned into legislation and wind its way through the meat grinder of lawmakers and lobbyists who weren’t involved in the task force’s deliberations. Nick Coltrain, Denver Post, 18 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for grinder

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of grinder was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Grinder.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/grinder. Accessed 5 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

grinder

noun
grind·​er ˈgrīn-dər How to pronounce grinder (audio)
1
: one that grinds
2
: a large sandwich on a long split roll

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