Dictionary entry

Grain (5)

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Grain (grān), n. [See Groin a part of the body.]

1. A branch of a tree; a stalk or stem of a plant. G. Douglas.

2. A tine, prong, or fork. Specifically: (a) One the branches of a valley or of a river. (b) pl. An iron fish spear or harpoon, having four or more barbed points.

3. A blade of a sword, knife, etc.

4. (Founding) A thin piece of metal, used in a mold to steady a core.