# emery

/ˈɛmɝi/ (US) · /ˈɛməɹi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/emery
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a very hard, dark rock that is crushed into powder. It is used to make tools for smoothing or polishing hard surfaces like metal or fingernails.

For teachers: a granular rock consisting of a mixture of corundum and magnetite or hematite, used as an abrasive. Often applied to paper or cloth to create tools for grinding and polishing.

## Examples

- She used an emery board to smooth her nails.
- The jeweler used a fine emery cloth to remove the scratches from the silver ring.
- Before the final polish, the metalworker used various grades of emery to ensure the surface was perfectly uniform and free of industrial burrs.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a modifier before another noun, such as 'emery board', 'emery cloth', or 'emery paper'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.