sandpaper

1 of 2

noun

sand·​pa·​per ˈsan(d)-ˌpā-pər How to pronounce sandpaper (audio)
Synonyms of sandpapernext
: paper covered on one side with abrasive material (such as sand) glued fast and used for smoothing and polishing
sandpapery
ˈsan(d)-ˌpā-p(ə-)rē How to pronounce sandpaper (audio)
adjective

sandpaper

2 of 2

verb

sandpapered; sandpapering; sandpapers

transitive verb

: to rub with or as if with sandpaper

Examples of sandpaper in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
The sandpaper look or feel of crepey skin is in part due to dryness. — Essence Wiley, InStyle, 24 June 2026 And spoiler alert, sandpaper lips don’t make for good kissing. — Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes.com, 31 May 2026
Verb
But that was back when the team drafted well enough and the greatest quarterback of all time was able to sandpaper over their misses. — Chad Graff, The Athletic, 11 Mar. 2025 Similar to sandpaper, steel wool has various grades to choose from—ranging from super fine to extra coarse. — Halee Miller Van Ryswyk, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sandpaper

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1755, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1846, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sandpaper was in 1755

Rhymes for sandpaper

See All Rhymes for sandpaper

Browse Nearby Words

sandpainting
sandpaper
sandpaperer
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sandpaper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sandpaper. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

sandpaper

1 of 2 noun
sand·​pa·​per -ˌpā-pər How to pronounce sandpaper (audio)
: paper with rough material (as sand) glued on one side and used for smoothing and polishing

sandpaper

2 of 2 verb
: to rub with or as if with sandpaper
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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