imperforate
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ɪmˈpɜːrfəreɪt/
KK: /ɪmˈpɜrfəˌreɪt/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that does not have any openings or holes.
Example
The imperforate membrane prevented any fluid from passing through.
Conversation
Did you notice that some of these envelopes are imperforate?
Yeah, I saw that, which is pretty unusual for mail.
I wonder if they were just a mistake in production.
Could be! It’s interesting how such small details can change things.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
solid
closed
sealed
Antonyms
perforated
open
hollow
noun
Definition
A type of stamp that has no holes or perforations along its edges, making it solid and uncut.
Example
The collector was excited to find an imperforate stamp from the early 20th century.
Conversation
Have you ever seen an imperforate stamp before?
No, I haven't! What makes it special?
It's a stamp that doesn't have the usual perforations on the edges.
Root Explanation
Imperforate is formed from "im-" (meaning not) and "perforare" (meaning to pierce or bore through). The word describes something that is not pierced or does not have holes.
Memory Tip
Think of 'not' ('im-') and 'piercing' ('perforare') to remember that 'imperforate' means something that is not pierced.
Visually Confused Words
biperforate
perforate
perforated
perorate
unperforate
perforative
impropriate
perforata