granite

noun

gran·​ite ˈgra-nət 

1

: a very hard natural igneous rock formation of visibly crystalline texture formed essentially of quartz and orthoclase or microcline and used especially for building and for monuments

2

: unyielding firmness or endurance

the cold granite of Puritan formalism

—V. L. Parrington

granitelike

ˈgra-nət-ˌlīk 

adjective

granitic

gra-ˈni-tik 

adjective

granitoid

ˈgra-nə-ˌtȯid 

adjective

Synonyms

• decidedness
• decision
• decisiveness
• determination
• determinedness
• firmness
• purposefulness
• resoluteness
• resolution
• resolve
• stick-to-itiveness

Examples of granite in a Sentence

had the granite to see the project out to the end

Recent Examples on the Web

The granite cookware set has a nonstick coating and can be used on any surface. —Rachel Trujillo, People.com, 2 Dec. 2024

This sponge can be used on faucets, sinks, and solid surface countertop materials—just steer clear of using this method on granite or marble. —Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Nov. 2024

This two-bedroom loft features new hardwood floors, exposed brick, arched windows, original beams, a fireplace, and a refreshed kitchen with granite counters and subway tiles. —The Week Staff, theweek, 19 Nov. 2024

The stones were removed, and $20,000 worth of granite was saved. —Peter Breen, Chicago Tribune, 16 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Italian granito, from past participle of granire to granulate, from grano grain, from Latin granum

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

granite

noun

gran·​ite ˈgran-ət 

1

: a very hard rock that can be polished and is used in buildings and monuments

2

: unyielding firmness (as of character, will, or opinion)