ABRASIVE Synonyms: 59 Similar and Opposite Words

abrasive

adjective

ə-ˈbrā-siv

Definition of abrasive

as in annoying

causing annoyance an abrasive display of rude behavior

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of abrasive Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers that could damage finishes or leave streaks behind. — Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 July 2026 In Landman, Thornton plays abrasive crisis executive Tommy Norris, who struggles to run a West Texas oilfield following a fatal accident. — Glenn Garner, Deadline, 2 July 2026 Dirt and dust particles are abrasive and can lead to scratches and discoloration of the finishes on all types of blinds. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 1 July 2026 The Red Bull Ring’s track surface is highly abrasive due to its age, but tire degradation often isn’t as challenging as at some other F1 venues due to the short corner lengths here. — Madeline Coleman, New York Times, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for abrasive

Recent Examples of Synonyms for abrasive

Adjective

This is a realm of exposition-heavy opening credits, relentlessly earwormy theme tunes, and heroes who, for no obvious reason, choose to hang out with cute/annoying [delete as appropriate] comedy sidekicks like Orko and Snarf.

— Richard Edwards, Space.com, 5 July 2026
This would have evoked annoying memories of the 0-0 draw against Morocco in 2022 and 1-1 draw with Russia in 2018 for Spain.

— Anantaajith Raghuraman, New York Times, 5 July 2026

Definition of annoying

Adjective

Few workplace behaviors are as small, common and irritating as the message that goes unanswered.

— Benjamin Laker, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026
Greenberg tried his best to ignore an irritating ankle injury that had plagued him the last couple of weeks and grimaced under the hazy sunlight as the pitcher, probably 20 or more years his junior, stared him down.

— Christopher Buchanan, Los Angeles Times, 26 June 2026

Definition of irritating

Adjective

And so the disturbing part of the dissent in the mail ballot case was that this was about a very narrow issue, whether ballots that are postmarked by Election Day can be counted if they're received in some period after.

— Tonya Mosley, NPR, 8 July 2026
The film is a modern take on creature horror movies told from the perspective of a young boy who slowly begins to discover his beloved parents are hiding a disturbing secret about his mother’s true nature.

— Justin Kroll, Deadline, 7 July 2026

Definition of disturbing

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abrasions

abrasive

abreast

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“Abrasive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/abrasive. Accessed 12 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of abrasive

adjective

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