1. a vehicle or machine that spreads grit, salt, or sand on roads to improve traction in icy or snowy conditions
Usage: chiefly British
2. a person who grinds or crushes something, or who works with grit
Usage: less common
3. a person who shows courage or determination in difficult circumstances
Usage: informal

Examples

• The gritter was out early this morning spreading salt on the icy roads.
• During winter storms, gritters work around the clock to keep highways safe.
• She's a real gritter—she never gives up no matter how tough things get.
• The city deployed several gritters to treat the main streets after the snowfall.
• He showed the grit of a true gritter by finishing the race despite his injury.