oilstone
Definition
Noun: A fine-grained whetstone that is used with oil as a lubricant to sharpen the edges of cutting tools, such as chisels or plane blades. The oil suspends the metal particles removed during sharpening and prevents the stone from clogging.
Usage
An oilstone is a sharpening tool. It is used by applying a few drops of light oil (like honing oil or mineral oil) to its surface before rubbing a blade across it. This process hones the blade to a very sharp edge.
Examples
- Noun:
- He carefully sharpened his woodworking chisels on a fine-grit oilstone.
- A well-maintained oilstone is essential for keeping kitchen knives razor-sharp.
- The old barber stropped his straight razor on a leather strop after using an oilstone.
Advanced Usage
- "to be as fine as an oilstone": An informal simile describing something with an extremely smooth or fine texture or finish.
- The craftsman sanded the wood until it was as fine as an oilstone.
Variants and Related Words
- Whetstone (n): A general term for a stone used for grinding and sharpening. An oilstone is a type of whetstone designed for use with oil.
- Honing oil (n): The light oil specifically used with an oilstone.
- Waterstone (n): A similar sharpening stone that uses water instead of oil as a lubricant.
Synonyms
- Sharpening stone
- Hone (when used as a noun)
Related Phrases
- To oil the stone: The preparatory action of applying oil to an oilstone before use.
- Remember to oil the stone lightly before you begin sharpening.
Noun
-
a whetstone for use with oil
