schmirgelig
abrasive, rough like sandpaper
adjective SHMIR-ge-likh Rare
Usage Note
schmirgelig describes a surface that is rough and abrasive to the touch, like sandpaper (Schmirgelpapier). Used for unfinished wood, rough concrete, or heavily calloused skin. More evocative than simply rau.
Examples
"Die Holzoberfläche war noch schmirgelig und musste noch geschliffen werden."
Natural Translation
The wooden surface was still rough and needed to be sanded.
Literal Translation
The wood-surface was still abrasive and had-to still be-sanded.
Related Words
Explore German by topic