The term 'GRATE STUFF' can be broken down into three separate words: SOOT (4 letters), ASH (3 letters), and ASHES (5 letters). SOOT is a black powdery substance that is created when something is burned. ASH is the solid residue left after something has been burned. ASHES are the remains of something that has been burned completely. Together, these three words form the phrase 'GRATE STUFF, ' which is used to describe something that is of high quality or excellent.