emery
noun
em·ery ˈem-rē 
ˈe-mə-
plural emeries
often attributive
: a dark granular mineral that consists of corundum with iron oxide impurities (such as magnetite) and is used as an abrasive
also : a hard abrasive powder
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the Web Any imperfections, any divots or ridges, must be judiciously smoothed, and a climber’s equipment includes pumice stones, sandpaper and emery boards. 
David Wharton, Los Angeles Times, 5 Aug. 2021 Smaller pockets to hold chalk for the box call and emery paper for the pot and striker calls is also a plus. Frank Sargeant, AL.com, 8 Apr. 2018 Once the polish is gone, wash your hands, dry them thoroughly, and use an emery board or nail file to shape your nails. Seventeen, 22 Apr. 2008
David Wharton, Los Angeles Times, 5 Aug. 2021 Smaller pockets to hold chalk for the box call and emery paper for the pot and striker calls is also a plus. Frank Sargeant, AL.com, 8 Apr. 2018 Once the polish is gone, wash your hands, dry them thoroughly, and use an emery board or nail file to shape your nails. Seventeen, 22 Apr. 2008 Word History
Etymology
Middle English, from Anglo-French esmeril, from Old Italian smiriglio, from Medieval Latin smiriglum, from Greek smyrid-, smyris
First Known Use
15th century, in the meaning defined above
Phrases Containing emery
Kids Definition
emery
noun
em·ery ˈe-mə-rē
ˈem-rē
plural emeries
: a mineral used as a powder for polishing and grinding
Medical Definition
emery
noun
em·ery ˈem-(ə-)rē
plural emeries
often attributive
: a dark granular mineral that consists essentially of corundum and is used for grinding and polishing
also : a hard abrasive powder