sandpaper

American  

[sand-pey-per] / ˈsændˌpeɪ pər /

noun

1. strong paper coated with a layer of sand or other abrasive, used for smoothing or polishing.

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verb (used with object)

1. to smooth or polish with or as if with sandpaper.

sandpaper British  

/ ˈsændˌpeɪpə /

noun

1. (formerly) a strong paper coated with sand for smoothing and polishing

2. a common name for glasspaper

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verb

1. (tr) to polish or grind (a surface) with or as if with sandpaper

Etymology

Origin of sandpaper

First recorded in 1815–25; sand + paper

Example Sentences

It took a lot to bestir Angelenos from their bungalows and Buicks, but their throats felt like sandpaper, and their chests hurt like the blazes.

From Los Angeles Times

Political power sandpapered the edges of her idealism.

From The Wall Street Journal

“And the door to Tante Jans’s rooms? Someone’s been using paint remover on it, and sandpaper too—and that’s hard work!”

From Literature

As always, my voice is sandpaper by the end of the night; I long for a throat lozenge but instead pick up my cord for one last transfer.

From Literature

“It’s just that Cadet Mason makes me want to scrub my skin with sandpaper, sir.”

From Literature