grid
7 synonyms for grid, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A pattern of evenly spaced lines crossing to form squares, such as on graph paper or a map.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use grid
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
the power grid
a starting grid
grid lines
Etymology
Likely a shortened form of "gridiron" or "griddle" — both refer to something made of crossing bars.
Full origin of grid →Frequently asked questions
What does “grid” mean?
The word “grid” means a pattern of evenly spaced lines crossing to form squares, such as on graph paper or a map. In plain terms, a pattern of crossing lines forming squares, or (especially with "the") the power network that delivers electricity.
How do you pronounce “grid”?
“Grid” is pronounced grihd (/ɡɹɪd/ in IPA).
How do you use “grid” in a sentence?
Here is “grid” used in a sentence: “She sketched the floor plan on a grid to keep the proportions accurate.”
What part of speech is “grid”?
“Grid” is a noun.
Is “grid” a common word?
“Grid” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “grid” have?
“Grid” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a pattern of evenly spaced lines crossing to form squares, such as on graph paper or a map.
What is the difference between a "grid" and a "graph"?
A "grid" is the pattern of evenly spaced crossing lines that form squares, while a "graph" is a diagram that plots data, often drawn on top of a grid. The grid provides the framework; the graph is the information displayed on it.
What is the difference between the "grid" and the "national grid"?
The "grid" is a general term for the network of power lines, substations, and generators that distributes electricity, while the "national grid" refers to a specific country-wide version of that network. In everyday British speech, "the grid" often means the national grid.
What are common phrases that use "grid"?
"Grid" appears in "power grid" and "electrical grid" for the electricity network, "off the grid" for being disconnected from utilities, and "grid pattern" or "street grid" for a layout of crossing lines. The two main senses, a pattern of lines and an electricity network, are usually clear from context.
