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 Drawings in metalpoint must be made on paper coated with a slightly abrasive ground, which is often tinted. — Jeffrey Weiss, Artforum, 1 Sep. 2026 Next, brush the surfaces with a non-abrasive scrub brush or a microfiber cloth, focusing on edges and grout lines, Williams says. — Michelle Mastro, The Spruce, 31 Aug. 2026 When Hank and Peggy meet a new family who has moved into the neighborhood, the Laotian Souphanousinphones, Hank immediately dislikes the father, Kahn, who is abrasive, competitive, and often rude. — Jordana Rosenfeld, Encyclopedia Britannica, 24 Aug. 2026 The cloths in this 24-pack are lint-free, soft, and non-abrasive. — Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 19 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for abrasive

Recent Examples of Synonyms for abrasive

Adjective

Yes, some of those fans are incredibly annoying—and some of those people aren’t even fans.

— Corey Seymour, Vogue, 4 Sep. 2026
Would Berman, then 49 years old, care about the project, or would the superstar personality treat it as an annoying burden thrust on him by his employer’s media arrangement?

— Dan Bernstein, Sportico.com, 4 Sep. 2026

Definition of annoying

Adjective

Despite its splashy unveiling, Project Zenith is more about making the OS less irritating for developers than adding any groundbreaking capabilities.

— Chris Hoffman, PC Magazine, 9 Sep. 2026
Another slightly irritating quirk is that the top only stays open for 9 seconds.

— Abbey Stone, Bon Appetit Magazine, 7 Sep. 2026

Definition of irritating

Adjective

The other frustrating part about the New England run game was the way it was called so conservatively by offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels.

— Chad Graff, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026
Inflation has shown some signs of easing in recent months but is still high, frustrating consumers who are struggling with more expensive gas, groceries, clothing and other essentials.

— ABC News, ABC News, 10 Sep. 2026

Definition of frustrating

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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 14 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of abrasive

adjective

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