file down

Reduce by rasping

To file down is to reduce or smooth something by rubbing it with an abrasive tool: She filed down the rough edges of the metal.

The phrase implies gradual removal of material until a surface is level, smooth, or fits properly.

Figuratively, to file down can mean to diminish or soften something over time: Years of compromise had filed down his idealism.

smoothing

rasp

Coarse shaping tool

  • sandpaperAbrasive-coated finishing material
  • emeryGranular polishing mineral
  • gritDetermination or abrasive particles

buff · polish · burr · pumice · whetstone · grindstone · abrade · finish · deburr · bevel

reducing

whittle

Carve by shaving layers

shave off · lessen · narrow · taper · thin · wear away · shorten · shape · contour · adjust

sharpening

hone

Make keener or better

  • edgeBoundary or sharpness
  • bladeFlat cutting edge
  • knifeSharp cutting utensil

sharpen · point · keen · strop · cutting edge · tool · chisel · scythe · razor · serrated

Opposites
material removal vs. addition

file downbuild up

Grow by increments

add to · apply · deposit · coat · accrete

surface texture modification

file downroughen

Make surface uneven

texturize · score · knurl · etch · corrugate

size/dimension change

file downbuild up

Grow by increments

enlarge · bulk up · thicken · extend · expand

Family

file, down, files, filed, filing, filer, filers, downer, downs

Familiarity
Top 100,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G