filings
n. plural-only C1 Advanced US //ˈfaɪɫɪŋz// UK //fˈaɪlɪŋz// fil·ings
n. very small pieces of metal that look like dust or tiny grains. They are usually created when someone rubs or cuts metal with a tool.
n. small particles or fragments of a material, typically metal, produced by the action of a file or similar abrasive tool.
The magnet pulled the iron filings across the paper.
After sharpening the garden shears, he wiped away the fine metal filings to prevent them from rusting.
The physics demonstration used iron filings to visualize the invisible magnetic field lines surrounding a simple bar magnet.
Usage
Usually appears in the plural form to describe a collection of particles; rarely used in the singular.