grinder
UK[ˈɡraɪndə(r)]US[ˈɡraɪndər]
n
a machine or device for grinding something, especially coffee beans or spices.
n
a person who operates a grinding machine or tool.
n
a molar tooth.
Morpheme Breakdown
grind
er
grind
er
Etymology
the word 'grinder' is a transparent english compound formed from the verb 'grind' and the agentive suffix '-er'. the verb 'grind' originates from the proto-germanic grindanan, itself derived from the proto-indo-european root ghrendh-, meaning to crush or rub. the suffix '-er' is a common germanic agent-noun formative, used to denote someone who performs an action or a tool designed for that action. thus, the literal meaning "one who or that which grinds" has remained remarkably consistent from its old english origins to its modern applications for machines, tradespeople, and even teeth.
Analysis
Structure: grind + er
grind (from old english 'grindan', meaning to crush into particles, functional role: verb root) + er (from old english '-ere', agent noun suffix, functional role: suffix denoting a person or thing that performs an action)
Examples
i need to buy a new coffee grinder for the kitchen.
he worked for years as a precision tool grinder in the factory.
the dentist said the pain is coming from a cavity in my lower left grinder.