Grain

Definition

Grain is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to small, hard seeds of cereals such as wheat, rice, or corn, or the texture of materials such as wood or leather. As a verb, it means to form into grains or give texture.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡreɪn/
• Respelling: GRAYN

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡreɪn/
• Respelling: GRAYN

Etymology

The word "grain" originates from the Latin "granum," meaning "seed or kernel," which came into Old French as "grain." It entered Middle English in the 14th century, retaining its core meanings of seed and texture.

Derivatives

• Grainy (adjective)
• Granular (adjective)
• Engrain (verb)
• Grained (adjective)
• Degrain (verb, rare)

Synonyms

• Kernel
• Seed
• Particle

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "grain" is used in agricultural, culinary, and material contexts. For example, "The farmer harvested a large crop of grain," or "The table has a beautiful wood grain."

Related Terms

• Cereal: Edible seeds from grass plants, commonly referred to as grains.
• Granule: A small particle or piece.
• Fiber: The structural material of plants, often found in grains.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The seed of cereal plants: Refers to small, hard seeds such as wheat, corn, or rice.
  • Example: "The bakery uses whole grain flour for its bread."
• The texture or pattern of a material: Describes the arrangement of fibers or particles in substances like wood, leather, or fabric.
  • Example: "The cabinet maker admired the natural grain of the oak wood."
• A small amount or particle: Refers to a tiny portion of something.
  • Example: "She told the story with a grain of truth."

Verb

• To form into grains or give texture: Describes the act of creating a grainy appearance or structure.
  • Example: "The surface was grained to mimic real leather."