n. 1.a frame of iron bars to hold a fire 2.a harsh rasping sound made by scraping something 3.a barrier that has parallel or crossed bars blocking a passage but admitting air grate v. 1.furnish with a grate 2.gnaw into 3.reduce to small shreds or pulverize by rubbing against a rough or sharp perforated surface 4.make a grating or grinding sound by rubbing together 5.scratch repeatedly