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emery

noun, often attributive em·ery \ ˈem-rē , ˈe-mə- \
Updated on: 18 Apr 2018
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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

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Recent Examples of emery from the Web

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

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

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

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