Contriturate

/kənˈtrɪtʃəreɪt/ verb

Definition

To grind, crush, or wear down into small particles or powder; to reduce to a fine substance through friction.

Etymology

From Latin contritus (worn down) + -ure (to make), from conterere (to wear away). The prefix con- adds force, and terere means to rub or grind.

Kelly Says

Apothecaries and chemists used this word for grinding herbs into medicine—contriturate your rose petals, and you release the oils that make the cure work.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.