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A grammar school is a type of school but exactly what kind of school varies in different English-speaking countries.
Origins
The original intent of these schools was to educate the young in the grammar of one or two European languages. In the British case that meant Latin and sometimes Greek in addition; and in the American case, that of English.
United States
In the United States, the term has often been used as a synonym for elementary school, although this usage is now at least somewhat in decline.
Australia
In Australia, "grammar schools" are generally independent schools.
United Kingdom
Some grammar schools in the United Kingdom date back to earlier than the 16th century. However, the meaning of the term has since changed considerably, and grammar schools now provide as broad an education as any other type of school. Grammar schools are also selective, typically taking the top 10% of those from the local catchment area. A test (in the UK it is the 11 plus exam) is often taken before being 'accepted' in a school. This system has become controversial in recent years with critics condemming it as "elitist" and defenders claiming that the Grammar schools provide a higher quality of education. The 11 plus exam has been abolished in most parts of the UK (in favour of other equally controversial methods of "academic selection") but it remains in Northern Ireland and some counties such as Kent and Lincolnshire despite so far unsuccessful attempts by campaigners to have it abolished there too.
See also
"Grammar school"