ENGLISH
REFERENCE

grout

n.
C2 Proficiency US //ˈɡɹaʊt// UK //ɡɹˈaʊt// grout Archaic

n. a thick, sticky substance used to fill the spaces between tiles on a floor or wall. It helps keep the tiles from moving and makes the surface look finished.

n. a cementitious or epoxy-based material used to fill the gaps between ceramic, stone, or other masonry tiles. It provides structural stability and a finished aesthetic to the surface.


SIMPLE

The floor is covered in white grout.

CONTEXTUAL

After laying the tiles, the workers applied a dark gray grout to seal the joints and prevent water from seeping through.

COMPLEX

Modern epoxy grouts offer superior resistance to mold and mildew compared to traditional cement-based varieties, making them a popular choice for high-moisture environments like bathrooms and kitchens.

Origin

From Middle English growte, grut, from Old English grūt (“dregs; coarse meal”), from Proto-West Germanic grūt, from Proto-Germanic grūtą (compare Dutch gruit (“dregs”), German Grauß, Norwegian grut (“ground”)), lengthening of Proto-Germanic grutą, ultimately from Proto-Indo-European gʰer- (“to grind, rub”). Related to grit.

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