Against the grain
/əˈɡɛnst ðə ɡɹeɪn/ prep_phrase
prep_phrase ·Uncommon ·College level
Definitions
Prep_phrase
- 1 Preventing a smooth, level surface from being formed by raising the nap of the wood or causing larger splinters to form ahead of the cutting tool below the cutting surface.
- 2 Contrary to what is expected; especially, of behavior different from what society expects. idiomatic
"By going against the grain and going to work nude, you've made yourself a laughing stock."
- 3 Unwillingly, reluctantly; contrary to one's nature. idiomatic
"It went much against the grain with him."
- 4 Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see against, the, grain.
"In all ordinary processes of grinding, the friction of the rapidly revolving millstones against the grain, or even of the stones against each other, develops a large amount of heat, so that the crushed wheat comes from the stones quite hot"
Example
More examples"By going against the grain and going to work nude, you've made yourself a laughing stock."