Definition of grind down

The word "grind down" is a phrasal verb that originated in British English during the mid-19th century. Its literal meaning is to wear down or reduce something by grinding or abrading it against a hard surface. The term "grind" itself dated back to Old English as a verb meaning "to work with a grinding tool." This earliest meaning of "grind" is still preserved in its modern usage to describe the action of grinding food in a mill or processing it in a machine. The phrase "grind down" came into use in the context of human effort and perseverance, particularly in achieving a goal through persistence. Over time, it has acquired a more abstract meaning that entails wearing someone down or exhausting them through relentless pressure or overwork. In its broader sense, "grind down" can apply to a variety of contexts, such as physical or mental exhaustion, financial strain, or emotional wear and tear. The phrase is commonly used in both spoken and written English and is recognized as a colloquial expression in many English-speaking countries. Its popularity likely stems from its evocative imagery, which paints a vivid picture of a relentless and ultimately unyielding force that ultimately grinds down its target.