swarf

noun

ˈswȯrf How to pronounce swarf (audio)
: material (such as metallic particles and abrasive fragments) removed by a cutting or grinding tool

Examples of swarf in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
End-of-life rare-earth permanent magnets, manufacturing swarf, and other scrap containing critical minerals were deemed recoverable resources essential to national security. — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 31 Aug. 2026 So, the technical term for this manufacturing debris is called swarf. — Joel Feder, The Drive, 3 June 2026 The swarf is collected and cleaned, and then can be remelted. — Willy Shih, Forbes, 10 July 2022

Word History

Etymology

probably from Middle English *swerf, from Old English geswearf, gesweorf; akin to Old English sweorfan to file away — more at swerve

First Known Use

1565, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of swarf was in 1565

Rhymes for swarf

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Browse Nearby Words

sware
swarf
swarga
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Cite this Entry

“Swarf.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/swarf. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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