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perforate

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈpɜːrfəreɪt/

KK: /ˈpɜrfəˌreɪt/

adjective
Definition

Having holes or openings made in something, often for the purpose of allowing it to be torn or separated easily.


Example

The perforated paper made it easy to tear off each page.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see the new design for the invitations?
Sloth B
Yeah, I love how they decided to perforate them for a unique look.
Sloth A
It definitely makes them stand out from the usual ones.
Sloth B
Exactly! I think it adds a nice touch.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
pierced
punctured
holed
Antonyms
solid
intact
whole
intransitive verb
Definition

To go through or make a hole in something.


Example

The bullet perforated the wall.


Tense Forms

Past: perforated

Past Participle: perforated


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you noticed how the rain can actually perforate the ground?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's interesting how nature works like that.
Sloth A
I love watching how the water perforates the soil after a storm.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To make a hole or holes in something, usually by piercing or stamping.


Example

The machine can perforate the paper to make it easier to tear along the lines.


Tense Forms

Past: perforated

Past Participle: perforated


Conversation
Sloth A
Do you know how to perforate paper for the binder?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's pretty easy with the right tool.
Sloth A
I need to perforate these sheets so they fit perfectly.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Perforate → It is formed from "per-" (meaning through) and "forare" (meaning to bore or pierce). The word describes the action of boring or piercing through something.

Memory Tip

Think of going 'through' ('per-') to 'bore' or 'pierce' ('forare') something — that's why perforate means to make holes through an object.

Visually Confused Words
perorate
unperforate
imperforate
biperforate
perborate
prorate
unperforated
imperforated
Is this page helpful?
Me too! It really brings the garden to life.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
pierce
puncture
bore
Antonyms
seal
close
block
Just make sure to line them up correctly before you start.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
puncture
pierce
bore
Antonyms
seal
close
fill