Grist is grain that has been separated from its chaff in preparation for grinding. It can also refer to grain that has been coarsely ground at a gristmill. The term derives from the Old English verb grindan, meaning "to grind."
Grist can be ground into meal or flour, depending on the fineness of the grind. Maize prepared as grist is called grits when coarsely ground, and cornmeal when ground more finely. Other grains such as wheat, oats, barley, and buckwheat are similarly ground and sifted into flour or farina.
