Definition & Meaning of "grater"

What is a "grater"?

A grater is a kitchen tool used for shredding food into fine pieces or strands. It typically consists of a flat or box-like surface with sharp, serrated edges made of metal or other durable materials. Graters come in various sizes and styles, including handheld graters, box graters, and rotary graters, each offering different features and benefits. To use a grater, you rub or press the food item against the sharp edges, which shred it into smaller pieces that fall through the openings or slots onto a surface below.