noun
Common
grid
grihd
Grid (noun) means a pattern of evenly spaced lines crossing to form squares, such as on graph paper or a map. Example: “Each square of the grid on the map represents one kilometre.”
noun
1
A pattern of evenly spaced lines crossing to form squares, such as on graph paper or a map.
"Each square of the grid on the map represents one kilometre."
"She sketched the floor plan on a grid to keep the proportions accurate."
"The city's streets are laid out in a neat grid."
2
The network of power lines, substations, and generators that delivers electricity across a region.
"Engineers worked through the night to reconnect the village to the grid."
"Solar panels on the roof feed extra energy back into the grid."
"The storm knocked out power to half the grid."
3
The marked-off starting positions for competitors at the beginning of a race.
"The cars lined up on the grid, engines roaring, waiting for the lights."
"She was moved back five places on the grid after a penalty."
"He qualified fastest and started the race from pole position on the grid."
How to use grid
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA pattern of crossing lines forming squares, or (especially with "the") the power network that delivers electricity.
Common pairings
the power grid
a starting grid
grid lines
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Word forms
- Plural
- grids
- Third person singular
- grids
- Past tense
- gridded
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Each square of the _____ on the map represents one kilometre.
Etymology
Likely a shortened form of "gridiron" or "griddle" — both refer to something made of crossing bars.
Related words
Rhymes for grid
See all rhymes for 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.
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