Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ɡreɪn/

Definitions

• Noun: A small, hard, dry seed, especially the seed of a cereal grass (such as wheat, rice, or corn), used as food.
• Noun: A single particle or small piece of a substance.
• Noun: A tiny, uniform component of a substance or material, often used to describe texture or a quantity.
• Noun: The quality of being finely detailed or textured in a pattern, often used in reference to the texture of wood or stone.

Usage Examples

• The farmer harvested the grains of wheat from the field.
• She found a grain of sand in her shoe after walking on the beach.
• The artist carefully observed the grain of the wood to ensure the finish would look natural.
• The bread was made from grains such as barley, oats, and rye.

Etymology

The word "grain" originates from the Latin word "granum," meaning "seed" or "kernel." It has been used since the 14th century to refer to small, dry seeds or particles. The term was later extended to describe the texture and appearance of materials such as wood and stone.

Synonyms

• Seed
• Kernel
• Particle
• Speck
• Bit

Antonyms

• Whole
• Large piece
• Mass

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, the word is pronounced with a long "a" sound as /ɡreɪn/.
• In British English, the pronunciation is slightly more clipped but still maintains the long "a" sound.

Historical Usage

The use of grain as a fundamental food source dates back to ancient civilizations. Early farmers cultivated grains such as wheat, barley, and rice, which became staples of their diets. Throughout history, grain has also played a significant role in trade and commerce, particularly in ancient and medieval times when grain was a currency of exchange.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, grain is not only a dietary staple but also a symbol of life, fertility, and prosperity. Grains are used in various religious rituals, and harvesting them is often seen as a metaphor for the cycles of nature and life. In modern contexts, "grain" may also refer to the texture of materials like wood or metal, which can influence the quality or appearance of objects.

More Information

Grain plays an essential role in global agriculture and food production, contributing to the world's food supply. Beyond its significance in nutrition, the term "grain" is also used metaphorically to describe small, uniform particles in other contexts, such as sand or salt. The agricultural importance of grain continues to make it central to the economies of many countries around the world.