Grinder

'ɡraɪndər

nounBeginnerCommonTechnology

Definitions

3 meanings
1

A machine or device used for grinding or crushing substances into a fine powder or small pieces.

'ɡraɪndər

nounneutralBeginner
Technology

A machine for grinding

The chef used a spice grinder to season the dish.

💡 Simply: A grinder is like a machine that crushes things into smaller pieces. Like a coffee grinder makes coffee beans into coffee powder, or a meat grinder turns meat into ground meat.

👶 For kids: A grinder is a machine that squishes things into tiny pieces, like making coffee powder or ground meat!

More Examples

2

The construction crew used a concrete grinder to smooth the surface.

3

She bought a new grinder to sharpen her knives.

How It's Used

Manufacturing

"The factory uses a large industrial grinder to process the raw materials."

Cooking

"We need a coffee grinder to make fresh coffee."

2

A person who works very hard, often with little rest or enjoyment, especially to achieve a goal.

'ɡraɪndər

nounpositivemedium
General

A person who works hard

She was known as a grinder, always focused on her goals.

💡 Simply: A grinder is someone who works really hard, putting in a lot of effort to get something done, even if it's tough. Like a student who studies all night.

👶 For kids: A grinder is someone who works super hard to get something, like if you always practice to get better at soccer!

More Examples

2

The team's success was due to their grinders.

3

He is a successful grinder in the competitive tech industry.

How It's Used

Business

"He's a real grinder, always working late to meet deadlines."

Sports

"The coach admired the grinder on the team who always gave 110%."

Tip:Think of someone constantly grinding, putting in effort.
3

A large sandwich, typically consisting of a long roll filled with meat, cheese, vegetables, and sauce. This is often referred to as a submarine sandwich or hero sandwich.

'ɡraɪndər

nouninformalBeginner
General

A sandwich

I ordered a turkey grinder with all the fixings.

💡 Simply: A grinder is a big, long sandwich, often filled with meats, cheeses, and veggies. It's like a super-sized sandwich!

👶 For kids: A grinder is a big, long sandwich, like a super long hot dog!

More Examples

2

They have a great selection of grinders at the deli.

3

A classic grinder is perfect for a picnic.

How It's Used

Informal Food

"Let's grab a grinder for lunch."

Tip:Picture a long, hearty sandwich that needs a good 'grind' to eat it.

Idioms & expressions

be on the grind

To be actively and diligently working, often toward a goal.

"He's been on the grind all week to finish the project."

From Middle English *grinden, from Old English *grīndan ('to grind'). The -er suffix denotes an agent or instrument.

The term 'grinder' has been used for grinding tools since the Middle Ages. The meaning extended to describe hardworking individuals in the late 19th century. The sandwich meaning is more recent.

Memory tip

Think of a coffee grinder, it turns beans into small particles.

grinderergrynder

Usage

60%Spoken
40%Written