What does "rasp" mean?
A coarse file or filelike tool, on which the cutting prominences are distinct points raised by the oblique stroke of a sharp punch, instead of lines raised by a chisel, as on the true file.
Rasp
/ɹæsp/ noun, verb
noun, verb ·Common ·High school level
Meaning at a glance
- Primary sense: A coarse file or filelike tool, on which the cutting prominences are distinct points raised by the oblique stroke of a sharp punch, instead of lines raised by a chisel, as on the true file.
- Grammar: rasp is listed as noun, verb.
- Nearest alternatives: ablate, abrade, abrade, abrase.
- Useful contrasts: calm, gloss, gouges.
- Usage evidence: Tom spoke with his usual rasp, but something was off.
How to use "rasp"
- Start with the primary definition, then check the part of speech before placing the word in a sentence.
- Compare nearby synonyms to make sure "rasp" carries the exact meaning, tone, and strength you need.
- Use the example sentence as a context check. If your sentence uses the word differently, confirm that the grammar still fits.
Meaning check
- Does the word fit the sentence's grammar?
- Does it match the intended tone rather than only the dictionary definition?
- Would a simpler synonym be clearer for the reader?
- Is there enough surrounding context to prevent ambiguity?
Source and review context
This entry combines structured lexical data with WordToolSet review checks. Definitions, examples, synonyms, and usage notes may come from different source tables, so the page is designed to show evidence from more than one angle before you rely on "rasp" in a final draft.
If a word has several senses, prefer the sense that matches your sentence's grammar and surrounding context. A correct definition can still be the wrong choice when the sentence needs a different register, emphasis, or level of specificity.
Before you rely on this definition
Read the first definition as a starting point, then check the example, synonyms, and part of speech before treating "rasp" as the right word for your sentence.
If your draft is formal, technical, persuasive, or sensitive, compare "rasp" with a nearby alternative so the final choice matches both meaning and reader expectation.
Compare nearby meanings
- Use synonyms when you need a softer, stronger, simpler, or more specific word.
- Use antonyms to check the boundary of the meaning and avoid accidental contrast.
- Use the example sentence to confirm the word behaves naturally in context.
- Keep the original wording when a replacement adds complexity without improving precision.
Definition decision workflow
1. Identify the role
Check whether "rasp" is acting as noun, verb in your sentence. A definition is only useful when the grammar matches the way the word is being used.
2. Test the nearest option
Compare it with "ablate" and other nearby choices to see whether the sentence needs a softer, stronger, or more familiar word.
3. Confirm with context
Use the example sentence below as an evidence check, then read your own sentence out loud to catch tone or rhythm problems.
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Final meaning check
Before publishing a sentence with "rasp", ask whether the word helps the reader understand the idea faster. A precise word should reduce confusion, not simply make the sentence look more polished.
When the definition, synonym evidence, and example context point in the same direction, the word is usually a safer choice. When they conflict, revise the sentence or choose a clearer alternative.
Definitions
Noun
- 1 A coarse file or filelike tool, on which the cutting prominences are distinct points raised by the oblique stroke of a sharp punch, instead of lines raised by a chisel, as on the true file.
- 2 The raspberry. obsolete
"Set sorrel amongst rasps, and the rasps will be smaller."
- 3 a coarse file with sharp pointed projections wordnet
- 4 The sound made by this tool when used, or any similar sound.
"the rasp of her perpetual cough"
- 5 uttering in an irritated tone wordnet
Verb
- 1 To use a rasp. intransitive
- 2 utter in a grating voice wordnet
- 3 To make a noise similar to the one a rasp makes in use; to utter rasps. intransitive
- 4 scrape with a rasp wordnet
- 5 To say in a raspy voice.
"“No. I am going to feed you to the children,” rasped Burt, his laugh rattling around his throat, prising Dad’s fingers one by one off his apron."
Show 2 more definitions
- 6 To work something with a rasp. transitive
"to rasp wood to make it smooth"
- 7 To grate harshly upon; to offend by coarse or rough treatment or language. ambitransitive, figuratively
"Some sounds rasp the ear."
Example
"Tom spoke with his usual rasp, but something was off."
Common questions
What is a synonym for "rasp"?
Common synonyms include: ablate, abrade, abrade, abrase, abrasive, afflict.
How do you use "rasp" in a sentence?
Tom spoke with his usual rasp, but something was off.
How do you pronounce "rasp"?
Pronounced /ɹæsp/.
Etymology
Etymology 1
From Middle English raspen, from Old French rasper, from Frankish *hraspōn, from Proto-Germanic *hraspōną, related to Proto-Germanic *hrespaną (“to tear”). Compare Old High German raspōn (“to gather, rake”), Old English ġehrespan (“to tear”). The noun is from Middle French raspe.
Etymology 2
From raspberry.