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sandpapery

adjective

Definition of sandpaperynext
as in scratchy

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Example Sentences

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 sandpapery Building on the bones of Detroit techno and electro, his best records are hallucinogenic portals into worlds made out of 8-bit textures, rusty bleeps, and the occasional forlorn piano or sandpapery vocal sample. — Andrew Ryce, Pitchfork, 9 Apr. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sandpapery
  1. scratchy
  2. scraggly
  3. knobby
  4. harsh
  5. nubby
  6. nubbly
  7. knurled
Adjective
  • The third round was old-style Gauff, scratchy and inconsistent and grinding her way to victory with her legs, over Cristina Buçsa.
    — Matthew Futterman, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2026
  • From removing stubborn stains to softening scratchy towels, vinegar consistently tackles the problems that detergents and fabric softeners sometimes leave behind.
    — Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Sep. 2026
Definition of scratchy
Adjective
  • His voice is raspy, and the once-cleanly cut soul patch that defined his look is scraggly and unkempt.
    — Levi Weaver, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026
  • In the trailer, Paulson appeared in a blue jacket with scraggly blonde waves and bleached eyebrows—and, very possibly, a few prosthetics.
    — Meg Walters, InStyle, 21 Aug. 2026
Definition of scraggly
Adjective
  • Punctuated by stripes and slim, knobby legs, this whimsical seating looks like something Tim Burton would dream up for your next happy hour.
    — Kelly Dawson, Architectural Digest, 17 Aug. 2026
  • Videos from Xinhua show the knobby-kneed newborn resting on straw, being stroked and examined by scientists in white coats.
    — Jessie Yeung, CNN Money, 25 July 2026
Definition of knobby
Adjective
  • Avoid acidic cleaners like vinegar or lemon, as well as harsh chemicals and abrasive tools, to protect the glaze.
    — Alexandra Kelly, Martha Stewart, 5 Sep. 2026
  • The frustration within the Democratic caucus immediately prompted some calls for harsh consequences.
    — Zachary Schermele, USA Today, 5 Sep. 2026
Definition of harsh
Adjective
  • This sofa, upholstered in a nubby textile, similar to boucle or chenille fabric, is a structured alternative to the boneless couches running amok on Amazon—but it’s designed to be just as comfortable.
    — Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 1 Sep. 2026
  • Rigatoni is our shape of choice for this recipe—its wide opening captures the nubby bits of sausage while its ridges hold onto the light, almost-creamy sauce.
    — Martha Stewart, Martha Stewart, 23 Aug. 2026
Definition of nubby
Adjective
  • Lifting the lid revealed a small tart topped with a tongue of Spanish sea urchin, resting on a nubbly bed of cancha nuts.
    — Brock Keeling, Oc Register, 22 Sep. 2025
Definition of nubbly
Adjective
  • But its knurled Smart Dial acts as a scroll wheel for books, web pages, and other content – offering a much more intuitive way to read with one hand.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 25 May 2026
  • And four knurled billet feet allow precise leveling.
    — Robert Ross, Robb Report, 14 Nov. 2025
Definition of knurled

Browse Nearby Words

sandpapers
sandpapery
sands
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Cite this Entry

“Sandpapery.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sandpapery. Accessed 16 Sep. 2026.

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