sandpaper

1 of 2

noun

sand·​pa·​per ˈsan(d)-ˌpā-pər 

: paper covered on one side with abrasive material (such as sand) glued fast and used for smoothing and polishing

sandpapery

ˈsan(d)-ˌpā-p(ə-)rē 

adjective

sandpaper

2 of 2

verb

sandpapered; sandpapering; sandpapers

transitive verb

: to rub with or as if with sandpaper

Examples of sandpaper in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

If your tools have rough wooden handles, smooth the handles out with some sandpaper and apply linseed oil to the wood to prevent drying and cracking. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Dec. 2024

Paint Wardrobes Using fine-grit sandpaper, rough up the finish of the unassembled wardrobe parts and doors. —Maria V. Charbonneaux, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Dec. 2024

Verb

Konecny would also inject some edge and sandpaper with his fiery, energizing playstyle. —Harman Dayal, The Athletic, 21 Nov. 2024

After its mining operations flopped, the company pivoted to sandpaper and then to a series of clever inventions aimed at improving everyday life. —Sharon Lerner, ProPublica, 20 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1755, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1846, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

sandpaper

1 of 2 noun

sand·​pa·​per -ˌpā-pər 

: paper with rough material (as sand) glued on one side and used for smoothing and polishing

sandpaper

2 of 2 verb

: to rub with or as if with sandpaper