a·bra·sive / əˈbrāsiv; -ziv/ • adj. (of a substance or material) capable of polishing or cleaning a hard surface by rubbing or grinding. ∎  tending to rub or graze the skin: the trees were abrasive to the touch. ∎ fig. (of sounds or music) rough to the ear; harsh. ∎ fig. (of a person or manner) showing little concern for the feelings of others.• n. a substance used for grinding, polishing, or cleaning a hard surface.

abrasive Hard and rough substances used to grind and polish surfaces. Some abrasives are used as fine powders, others in larger fragments with cutting edges. Most natural abrasives are minerals, such as diamond, corundum, pumice and flint.