A work or frame, composed of parallel or cross bars, with interstices; a kind of lattice-work, such as is used in the windows of prisons and cloisters.

An instrument or frame of iron bars for holding coals, used as fuel, in houses, stores, shops.

To furnish with grates; to make fast with cross bars.

To rub, as a body with a rough surface against another body; to rub one thing against another, so as to produce a harsh sound; as, to grate the teeth.

To wear away in small particles, by rubbing with any thing rough or indented; as, to grate a nutmeg.

To offend; to fret; to vex; to irritate; to mortify; as, harsh words grate the heart; they are grating to the feeling; harsh sounds grate the ear.

To make a harsh sound, by rubbing or the friction of rough bodies.

To rub hard, so as to offend; to offend by oppression or importunity. This grated harder upon the hearts of men.

Agreeable.