grit
Pronunciation: (grit), [key] — n., v., grit•ted, grit•ting.
—n. - abrasive particles or granules, as of sand or other small, coarse impurities found in the air, food, water, etc.
- firmness of character; indomitable spirit; pluck: She has a reputation for grit and common sense.
- a coarse-grained siliceous rock, usually with sharp, angular grains.
- gravel.
- sand or other fine grainy particles eaten by fowl to aid in digestion.
—v.t. - to cause to grind or grate together.
—v.i. - to make a scratchy or slightly grating sound, as of sand being walked on; grate.
- to show tenseness, anger, or determination by or as if by clamping or grinding the teeth together.
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.