ab·ra·sive [? bráyssiv, ? bráyziv] adjective 1. using friction: using friction and roughness of texture to smooth or clean a surface an abrasive cleaner 2. harsh in manner: aggressively direct and insensitive noun (plural ab·ra·sives) smoothing substance: a substance such as pumice or emery that is used to smooth or polish a surface by grinding or scraping [Mid-19th century. < Latin abras-, past participle of abradere (see abrade)] -ab·ra·sive·ly, adverb -ab·ra·sive·ness, noun