sandpaper
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈsændˌpeɚ/
KK: /ˈsændˌpeɚ/
noun
Definition
A type of paper that has a rough surface covered with tiny particles, used for smoothing or polishing surfaces like wood or metal.
Example
He used sandpaper to make the wooden table smooth before painting it.
Conversation
I just bought some sandpaper for my woodworking project.
Nice! What are you making?
I'm trying to build a small table, and I want it to be smooth.
That sounds great! The sandpaper will definitely help with that.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
abrasive
grit
paper
Antonyms
smoothness
polish
gloss
transitive verb
Definition
To rub a surface with a material that has a rough texture to make it smooth or to prepare it for painting or finishing.
Example
He used sandpaper to smooth the edges of the wooden table.
Tense Forms
Past: sandpapered
Past Participle: sandpapered
Conversation
I need to sandpaper this wooden chair before I paint it.
That sounds like a good idea; it'll make the finish smoother.
Yeah, I just want to make sure it looks perfect when I'm done.
Root Explanation
Sandpaper → The word is formed from "sand" (from Old English "sand", meaning granular material) and "paper" (from Latin "papyrus", meaning writing material made from the papyrus plant). Sandpaper refers to a material made of sand particles glued onto paper, used for smoothing surfaces.
Memory Tip
Think of 'sand' as the granular material used for smoothing and 'paper' as the base it is attached to — together, they create a tool for smoothing surfaces.
Visually Confused Words
standpatter
snaper
sapper