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 cellar had been hacked out of granite boulders and wouldn’t budge. — Adriane Quinlan, Curbed, 11 Sep. 2026

For another geological lure, Kolymbithres Beach in Paros features giant white granite rocks sculpted by the sea into other-worldly formations. — Jennifer Tzeses, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Sep. 2026

The kitchen features a Viking stove, a stainless steel refrigerator and dishwasher, granite countertops, custom cabinetry and a designer backsplash. — Kim Quillen, Chicago Tribune, 8 Sep. 2026

New Finishes Epoxy resins can give laminate countertops a thick, glossy surface that resembles real granite. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 8 Sep. 2026

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)