sand

B1 · Intermediate

v. to rub a surface with a rough material like sandpaper to make it smooth.

v. to abrade or smooth a surface using sand or sandpaper. Transitive; requires a direct object representing the surface being treated.

“You need to sand the old wooden chair before you paint it.”

“After applying the first coat of primer, the carpenter carefully sanded the cabinet doors to ensure a perfectly level finish for the final lacquer.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. having a light brownish-yellow color, like the sand on a beach.

adj. of a light beige or pale yellowish-brown color resembling typical beach sand.

“She chose a sand colored carpet to make the living room feel warmer.”

“The interior designer recommended a sand palette for the walls to complement the natural oak flooring and maximize the sense of space.”

C2 · Proficiency Uncountable noun Informal · Humorous

n. the dry, crusty material that sometimes forms in the corners of your eyes while you sleep.

n. the dried mucus or 'sleep' found in the corners of the eyes upon waking. Often used in the phrase 'sand in your eyes'.

“He woke up and rubbed the sand from his eyes before getting out of bed.”

“The toddler sat up grumpily, still rubbing the sleep and sand from his eyes after a long afternoon nap.”