emery

noun

em·​ery ˈe-mə-rē 

ˈem-rē

plural emeries

often attributive

: a dark granular mineral that consists of corundum with iron oxide impurities (such as magnetite) and is used as an abrasive

also : a hard abrasive powder

Examples of emery in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This budget-friendly drill comes with two shaping bits, a cuticle pusher, plus buffing and emery attachments for a flawless manicure. —Harper's Bazaar Staff, Harper's BAZAAR, 7 Jan. 2023

Any imperfections, any divots or ridges, must be judiciously smoothed, and a climber’s equipment includes pumice stones, sandpaper and emery boards. —David Wharton, Los Angeles Times, 5 Aug. 2021

Smaller pockets to hold chalk for the box call and emery paper for the pot and striker calls is also a plus. —Frank Sargeant, AL.com, 8 Apr. 2018

Once the polish is gone, wash your hands, dry them thoroughly, and use an emery board or nail file to shape your nails. —Seventeen, 22 Apr. 2008

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French esmeril, from Old Italian smiriglio, from Medieval Latin smiriglum, from Greek smyrid-, smyris

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing emery

• emery board

Kids Definition

emery

noun

em·​ery ˈem-(ə-)rē 

plural emeries

: a dark mineral used in the form of powder or grains for polishing and grinding

Medical Definition

emery

noun

em·​ery ˈem-(ə-)rē 

plural emeries

often attributive

: a dark granular mineral that consists essentially of corundum and is used for grinding and polishing

also : a hard abrasive powder