Definition

Having a rough texture similar to sandpaper, often used to describe surfaces that are abrasive or gritty.

Example

The sandpapery surface of the wall made it difficult to paint smoothly.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Have you ever touched something that felt really sandpapery?

Yeah, I remember that old wooden table at my grandma's house.

Exactly! It was so rough, like it needed some varnish or something.

Right? I always thought it was a bit uncomfortable to sit at.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sandpapery → It is formed from "sand" (from Old English *sanda*, meaning granular material) and "-papery" (derived from "paper" which comes from Latin *papyrus*, meaning a writing material). The word describes a texture that resembles that of sandpaper, which is rough and gritty like sand on paper.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sand' as a rough material and 'papery' as something that feels like paper. This helps you remember that 'sandpapery' describes a texture that feels rough like sand on paper.

Visually Confused Words