whetting
Stroking against stone
Whetting is the act of sharpening a blade by rubbing it against a hard surface, typically a whetstone.
The word extends to anything that sharpens or stimulates: The trailer did its job of whetting my appetite for the film.
To whet is to make keener, whether an edge or a desire.
Gradual sharpening or refining
- grindstoneRotating stone for sharpening
- stropLeather sharpening strip
- bladeFlat cutting edge
- edgeBoundary or sharpness
knife · razor · scythe · steel · grit · abrasive · bevel · angle
Need for nourishment
- cravingPowerful urge to have
- tasteFlavor perception ability
- savorEnjoy with full attention
- palateOral cavity ceiling
tantalizing · mouthwatering · anticipation · desire · gustatory · delectable · savory · feast
honing
Gradual sharpening or refining
- grindstoneRotating stone for sharpening
- stropLeather sharpening strip
- bladeFlat cutting edge
edge · knife · razor · scythe · steel · grit · abrasive · bevel · angle · file
hunger
Need for nourishment
palate · tantalizing · mouthwatering · anticipation · desire · gustatory · delectable · savory · feast · cuisine
interest
Attention, stake, or fee
- intrigueSecret plotting or fascination
- piquingProvoking interest or curiosity
- arousingEvoking strong feeling
stimulating · fascination · teasing · enticing · sparking · kindling · provoking · awakening · stirring · alluring
- frictionfriction, rubbing, abrading, friction burn, rolling friction
- grindinggrinding, milling, crushing, pulverizing, granulation