grindstone

[ grahynd-stohn ]

noun

1. a rotating solid stone wheel used for sharpening, shaping, etc.
2. a millstone.

grindstone

/ ˈɡraɪndˌstəʊn /

noun

1. 1. a machine having a circular block of stone or composite abrasive rotated for sharpening tools or grinding metal
   2. the stone used in this machine
   3. any stone used for sharpening; whetstone
2. another name for millstone
3. keep one's nose to the grindstone or have one's nose to the grindstone
   to work hard and perseveringly

Word History and Origins

Origin of grindstone¹

1175–1225; Middle English. See grind, stone

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. keep / put one's nose to the grindstone, to work, study, or practice hard and steadily or to cause someone to do so:

   If I put my nose to the grindstone, I'll finish the job this week.

More idioms and phrases containing grindstone

see nose to the grindstone .

Example Sentences

If she works hard, keeps her nose to the grindstone, and remains diligent, within a few years she might even find herself making six figures.

From Los Angeles Times

The other two were contorted into unnatural positions and hidden beneath a rocky overhang, broken grindstones piled on their bodies.

From Science Magazine

The average person who “just puts their nose to the grindstone and goes to work, I don’t think that motivates them. I think it scares them and freezes them.”

From Seattle Times

“We must put our nose to the grindstone over the next several months and focus on party unit to secure a red-wave victory in November,” said Hoekstra in a statement following the RNC decision.

From Seattle Times

“It’s just about keeping your nose to the grindstone, and when the opportunities find you, seize every moment — every opportunity you get.”

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• assignment
• burden
• business
• duty
• effort
• exercise
• function
• project
• responsibility
• undertaking
• work