First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
emery
noun, em·ery often attributive \ˈem-rē, ˈe-mə-\
plural em·er·ies
Definition of EMERY
: a dark granular mineral that consists of corundum with iron oxide impurities (as magnetite) and is used as an abrasive; also : a hard abrasive powder
See emery defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of EMERY
Middle English, from Anglo-French esmeril, from Old Italian smiriglio, from Medieval Latin smiriglum, from Greek smyrid-, smyris
Rhymes with EMERY
EMERIES Defined for Kids
emery
noun em·ery \ˈe-mə-rē, ˈem-rē\
plural em·er·ies
Definition of EMERY for Kids
: a mineral used as a powder for polishing and grinding
Medical Dictionary
emery
noun , em·ery often attrib \ˈem-(ə-)rē\
plural em·er·ies
Medical Definition of EMERY
: a dark granular mineral that consists essentially of corundum and is used for grinding and polishing; also : a hard abrasive powder
Learn More About EMERY
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: emery ballPrevious Word in the Dictionary: emersionAll Words Near: emery
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up emery? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).