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abrasive

ab·ra·sive [ ə bráyssiv, ə bráyziv ]


adjective 
Definition:
 
1. using friction: using friction and roughness of texture to smooth or clean a surface
an abrasive cleaner

2. harsh in manner: aggressively direct and insensitive



noun  (plural ab·ra·sives)
Definition:
 
smoothing substance: a substance such as pumice or emery that is used to smooth or polish a surface by grinding or scraping

[Mid-19th century. < Latin abras-, past participle of abradere (see abrade)]

ab·ra·sive·ly adverb
ab·ra·sive·ness noun
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