Grinds

Grind (plural grinds) is a term with several related meanings across different domains. It can refer to the substance produced by grinding, the act of grinding, or the effort involved in repetitive tasks. As a verb, it describes wearing down or reducing by friction.

In culinary and beverage contexts, coffee grinds (or grounds) are the solid particles left after brewing. They influence flavor and texture and can be dried for compost or repurposed in cooking. Grinds vary from coarse to fine, depending on the brewing method and desired extraction.

In manufacturing and materials processing, grinding is an abrasive finishing process that removes material from a workpiece to achieve precise dimensions and a smooth surface. Equipment includes bench grinders and cylindrical grinders. The material removed is often called grindings or swarf.

In dentistry and sleep medicine, bruxism refers to involuntary grinding of teeth, typically during sleep. Chronic grinding can wear enamel, cause jaw pain, and may require protective appliances or other treatment.

In sports and urban culture, grinds are tricks performed on rails or edges, where a board or trucks slide along a surface. Grinds are common in skateboarding, snowboarding, and inline skating, and they vary by trick and setup.

In video games and online communities, grinding denotes repetitive actions undertaken to gain experience points, levels, or in-game currency. This form of progression emphasizes sustained effort over variety of activity, often across many play sessions.