Sand

Definition

The term "sand" refers to a granular material composed of finely divided rock and mineral particles, often found on beaches, deserts, and riverbeds.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sænd/
• Respelling: SAND

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sænd/
• Respelling: SAND

Etymology

The word "sand" originates from the Old English "sand," which comes from the Proto-Germanic "sanda" and Proto-Indo-European "samdh-," meaning "gravel" or "grit." It has been used since ancient times to describe granular materials.

Derivatives

• Sandy (adjective)
• Sandpaper (noun)
• Sander (noun)
• Sandpit (noun)
• Sandstorm (noun)

Synonyms

• Gravel
• Silt
• Dust

Antonyms

• Rock
• Clay
• None

Usage

The term "sand" is commonly used to describe fine particles in natural settings and industrial applications. For example, "The children built castles out of sand," or "He used sandpaper to smooth the surface."

Related Terms

• Gravel: Larger fragments of rock.
• Silt: Fine soil or sediment particles.
• Dune: A mound of sand formed by the wind.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Granular material composed of rock and mineral particles:
  • Example: "The beach was covered in golden sand."
• Loose material used for construction or industrial purposes:
  • Example: "The workers mixed cement with sand to make concrete."

Verb

• To smooth or polish a surface using sandpaper:
  • Example: "He sanded the wooden table to remove the rough edges."
• To sprinkle or cover with sand:
  • Example: "They sanded the icy road to improve traction."