Getting gritty

grit

grit/

noun

1. 1.

   small, loose particles of stone or sand.

   "she had a bit of grit in her eye"

   synonyms:

   sand, dust, dirt; More
2. 2.

   courage and resolve; strength of character.

   "he displayed the true grit of the navy pilot"

   synonyms:

   courage, bravery, pluck, mettle, backbone, spirit, strength of character,strength of will, moral fiber, steel, nerve, fortitude, toughness,hardiness, resolve, resolution, determination, tenacity, perseverance,endurance; More

verb

1. 1.

   clench (the teeth), especially in order to keep one's resolve when faced with an unpleasant or painful duty.

   "Congress must grit its teeth and take action"

   synonyms:

   clench, clamp together, shut tightly; More

2. 2.

   move with or make a grating sound.

   "fine red dust that gritted between the teeth"