sawdust

UK: ˈsɔːdʌst | US: ˈsɔːdʌst

Definition

  1. n. fine particles of wood produced by sawing or sanding.

Structure
saw <cutting tool>dust <fine particles>
Etymology

The word "sawdust" is a straightforward compound of "saw" (a tool with a toothed blade used for cutting wood) and "dust" (tiny dry particles). It emerged in the late 16th century, directly describing the byproduct of sawing wood. The term reflects a practical, observational naming process—combining two familiar concepts to label a tangible result of woodworking.

Examples

  1. The carpenter swept up the sawdust after finishing the table.

  2. The smell of fresh sawdust filled the workshop.

  3. Sawdust can be used as mulch in gardens.

  4. Her shoes were covered in sawdust from the construction site.

  5. The floor was slippery with sawdust after the cutting.