The word “grain” is a general term to describe a type of dry seed that’s grown for consumption. Corn, rice, wheat and rye are examples of grains. Grains provide many nutrients and form part of a healthy diet. Grain also refers to the small lines -the stratification of wood fibers- found in a piece of wood. And the expression “to go against the grain” means to act in a way that’s contrary to the way you or other people would typically act. It’s doing something that’s different from what’s considered to be normal.