sawdust

noun

saw·​dust ˈsȯ-(ˌ)dəst How to pronounce sawdust (audio)
: fine particles (as of wood) made by a saw in cutting

Examples of sawdust 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.
A lot of places where there’s sawdust on the floor. — Jeff Miller, Rolling Stone, 14 Apr. 2026 Look for small round holes, sawdust piles, and sticky yellow stains near wooden structures to spot an infestation. — Asia London Palomba, The Spruce, 9 May 2026 Other materials like peat moss or sawdust can be used, but fibrous sphagnum usually works best. — Rae Ford, Martha Stewart, 7 May 2026 Upon even closer inspection, a yellow, sawdust like appearance and entry hole at the base of the stem is often found. — Heather Zidack, Hartford Courant, 7 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for sawdust

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1528, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sawdust was circa 1528

Rhymes for sawdust

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Browse Nearby Words

saw down
sawdust
sawdust trail
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Cite this Entry

“Sawdust.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sawdust. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

sawdust

noun
saw·​dust ˈsȯd-(ˌ)əst How to pronounce sawdust (audio)
: tiny particles (as of wood) made by a saw in cutting

More from Merriam-Webster on sawdust

Nglish: Translation of sawdust for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about sawdust

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