Definition

Small pieces of wood that are created when cutting wood with a saw.

Example

After finishing the project, there was a lot of sawdust on the floor.

Conversation

Have you ever tried woodworking?

No, I haven't, but I've seen lots of sawdust in the workshop.

It's really fun, but it does make a big mess with all the sawdust everywhere.

I can imagine! I guess cleaning up would be part of the process.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Sawdust** → The word is formed from "saw" (from Old English *sawian*, meaning to cut) and "dust" (from Old French *doste*, meaning fine particles). Sawdust refers to the fine particles created when wood is cut or sawed.

Memory Tip

Think of the act of 'cutting' ('saw') wood, which creates 'fine particles' ('dust'). This helps you remember that sawdust is the dust produced from sawing wood.

Visually Confused Words