Grate, v. t. [OF grater to scrape, scratch, F. gratter, LL. gratare, cratare; of German origin; cf. OHG. chrazzōn G. kratzen, D. krassen, Sw. Kratta, and perh. E. scratch.] 1. To rub roughly or harshly, as one body against another, causing a harsh sound; as, to grate the teeth; to produce (a harsh sound) by rubbing.
On their hinges grate
Harsh thunder. Milton.
2. To reduce to small particles by rubbing with anything rough or indented; as, to grate a nutmeg.
3. To fret; to irritate; to offend.
News, my good lord Rome... grates me. Shak.