Definition

A person or thing that makes a hole by drilling or boring into a material, such as wood or soil.

Example

The carpenter used a borer to create holes for the dowels.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a borer in action when it comes to plants?

No, I haven't! What do they actually do?

They burrow into the wood and can really damage trees.

That's interesting! I've heard they can be quite a nuisance.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Borer → The word 'borer' is derived from the verb 'bore' (from Old English 'borian', meaning to pierce or drill) combined with the suffix '-er' (meaning a person who). A borer is a person or tool that pierces or drills into a material.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'pierces' ('borian') through something, and the '-er' indicates that this person is doing the action. A borer is someone who drills or makes holes.

Visually Confused Words