To work hard and steadily with focused concentration, often on tedious or demanding tasks.
Dating from the 1500s, this phrase originally referred to knife grinders who had to hold blades very close to rotating grindstones, requiring intense focus to avoid injury. The physical proximity to the stone became a metaphor for dedicated, close attention to work.
The original grindstone workers faced real danger - one moment of inattention could result in serious facial injuries from flying sparks or slipping blades. This occupational hazard transformed into our modern metaphor for unwavering focus and diligence.
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