grate
The verb form carries a strong sensory association with friction and harshness. When used for food, it describes a mechanical process of shredding. When used regarding emotions or sounds, it describes a psychological friction, suggesting a feeling of being worn down by something repetitive or discordant.
As a noun, the word refers to structural metalwork. It is important to distinguish between the functional tool used in kitchens and the architectural frame used in fireplaces or drainage systems, though both share the characteristic of being a metal grid.
Meanings
To reduce food to small shreds by rubbing it against a perforated metal surface.
She began to grate the cheese into the bowl.
To have an irritating or annoying effect on someone's nerves or patience.
His constant complaining really started to grate on me.
To make a harsh, rasping sound by rubbing two hard objects together.
The heavy iron gate began to grate against the stone floor.
Phrasal Verbs
grate on
to irritate or annoy someone persistently
The sound of his chewing began to grate on her nerves.