cross-grain
Definition
- Noun:
- In woodworking: "cross-grain" refers to the grain direction in wood that runs perpendicular to the main, straight grain, often resulting in a twisted or irregular pattern. It is considered a defect because it reduces strength and stability.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The carpenter avoided using that board because of the cross-grain, which would weaken the joint. (The wood had a twisted grain running against the main direction.)
- Cross-grain in timber can cause warping when the wood dries. (The perpendicular grain creates instability.)
Advanced Usage
- "to work against the cross-grain": to cut or shape wood in a direction that opposes the natural grain, which can cause splintering or tearing.
- Sanding against the cross-grain leaves rough scratches on the surface. (Working perpendicular to the main grain damages the finish.)
Variants and Related Words
- Cross-grained (adj): describing wood that has cross-grain; also figuratively meaning stubborn or contrary.
- The cross-grained plank was difficult to plane smooth. (The wood had a twisted grain.)
- He has a cross-grained personality, always disagreeing. (He is stubborn or difficult.)
Synonyms
- Twisted grain: a grain pattern that is not straight.
- Irregular grain: any grain that deviates from the main direction.
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs
- (No common idioms or phrasal verbs directly use "cross-grain" as a standalone term.)
Related Terms
- Grain: the natural direction of fibers in wood.
- End grain: the grain visible at the cut end of a piece of wood.