grindstone

noun

grind·​stone ˈgrīn(d)-ˌstōn 

1

: millstone sense 1

2

: a flat circular stone of natural sandstone that revolves on an axle and is used for grinding, shaping, or smoothing

Illustration of grindstone

• grindstone 2

Examples of grindstone in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In a series of discoveries spanning about 23,000 years, archaeologists have found ceremonial arrangements of stones, broken stalactites, a small grindstone, patches of calcite powder, and quartz crystals. —science.org, 3 July 2024

Take this as your cosmic cue to roll up your sleeves and put your nose to the grindstone. —Tarot.com, Orlando Sentinel, 27 June 2024

While the trio will put their nose to the grindstone to uncover the murder of their friend, their journey will also lead them to Hollywood when a studio offers to take their podcast to the big screen. —Esther Kang, Peoplemag, 21 June 2024

Taurus April 20 – May 20 There are more exciting things to do than putting your nose to the grindstone. —Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 15 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing grindstone

• keep one's nose to the grindstone
• one's nose is to the grindstone

Kids Definition

grindstone

noun

grind·​stone ˈgrīn-ˌstōn 

: a stone disk that turns on an axle and is used for grinding or sharpening