# grated

/ˈɡɹeɪtɪd/ (US) · /ɡɹˈeɪtɪd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/grated
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

cut into many small, thin pieces using a metal tool with sharp holes. You usually see this with cheese or vegetables like carrots.

For teachers: reduced to small shreds or fragments by being rubbed against a rough or sharp-edged surface. Often used as a participial adjective in culinary contexts.

## Examples

- She sprinkled some grated cheese over the pasta.
- The recipe calls for two cups of grated carrots and a teaspoon of fresh ginger.
- The chef finished the dish with a fine dusting of grated nutmeg, which added a subtle warmth to the creamy sauce.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I bought a grate cheese" but "I bought some grated cheese" — The past participle form 'grated' must be used when the word functions as an adjective describing the state of the food.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun or after a linking verb like 'is' or 'looks'.

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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.