emery

noun, often attributive em·ery \ ˈem-rē , ˈe-mə- \

Definition of emery

plural emeries

: 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

See emery defined for kids

Recent Examples of emery from the Web

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, "Vested Interest: Turkey vests are the Swiss Army knife of hunting," 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, "what do your nails say about you?," 22 Apr. 2008

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'emery.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of emery

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

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 15th century

in the meaning defined above

See Words from the same year

EMERY Defined for Kids

emery

noun em·ery \ ˈe-mə-rē , ˈem-rē \

Definition of emery for Students

plural emeries

: a mineral used as a powder for polishing and grinding

Medical Dictionary

emery

noun, often attributive em·ery \ ˈem-(ə-)rē \

medical Definition of emery

plural emeries

: a dark granular mineral that consists essentially of corundum and is used for grinding and polishing; also : a hard abrasive powder

Learn More about emery

See words that rhyme with emery Spanish Central: Translation of emery Nglish: Translation of emery for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about emery

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up emery? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

show

WORD OF THE DAY

satiety

play

fullness to the point of excess

BROWSE DICTIONARY

emersion

Emerson

emery

emery ball

emery board

Test Your Vocabulary

Difficult Spelling Words Quiz

Which is the correct spelling?

How Strong Is Your Vocabulary?

Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!

TAKE THE QUIZ

SCRABBLE® Sprint

Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.

TAKE THE QUIZ

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games