GRATE, n. [L. crates, a grate, a hurdle.] 1. A work or frame, composed of parallel or cross bars, with interstices; a kind of lattice-work, such as is used in the windows of prisons and cloisters.2. An instrument or frame of iron bars for holding coals, used as fuel, in houses, stores, shops, &c.GRATE, v.t. To furnish with grates; to make fast with cross bars. GRATE, v.t. [L. rado.] 1. To rub, as a body with a rough surface against another body; to rub one thing against another, so as to produce a harsh sound; as, to grate the teeth.2. To wear away in small particles, by rubbing with any thing rough or indented; as, to grate a nutmeg.3. To offend; to fret; to vex; to irritate; to mortify; as, harsh words grate the heart; they are grating to the feeling; harsh sounds grate the ear.4. To make a harsh sound, by rubbing or the friction of rough bodies.
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