granite

noun

gran·​ite ˈgra-nət 

1

: a very hard natural igneous rock formation of visibly crystalline texture formed essentially of quartz and orthoclase or microcline and used especially for building and for monuments

2

: unyielding firmness or endurance

… the cold granite of Puritan formalism.

—V. L. Parrington

granitelike

ˈgra-nət-ˌlīk 

adjective

granitic

gra-ˈni-tik 

adjective

granitoid

ˈgra-nə-ˌtȯid 

adjective

Synonyms of granite

• decision
• determination
• decisiveness
• resolve

Examples of granite in a Sentence

had the granite to see the project out to the end

Recent Examples on the Web

The acid in lemon juice can cause pitting to occur in marble, granite, slate, and other natural stones. —Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Dec. 2025

Originally a maritime hub and a center for granite quarrying, the town has evolved into a seaside tourism destination and continues to welcome visitors year-round. —Morgan Rizzo, Travel + Leisure, 23 Dec. 2025

There’s a granite monument downtown honoring their legacy. —Skye Sherman, Southern Living, 22 Dec. 2025

Soils consisting of granite, limestone, and schist contribute to this wine’s mineral-laden characteristics. —Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 18 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Italian granito, from past participle of granire to granulate, from grano grain, from Latin granum

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for granite

• gannet
• planet
• intranet
• pomegranate

Kids Definition

granite

noun

gran·​ite ˈgran-ət 

1

: a very hard rock that can be polished and is used in buildings and monuments

2

: unyielding firmness (as of character, will, or opinion)