Definition

Noun: A small, typically cylindrical tool made of rubber or a similar synthetic material, used for removing pencil marks from paper or other surfaces. It is commonly attached to one end of a writing pencil.

Usage

The term "pencil eraser" refers specifically to the eraser component of a pencil. It is used to correct mistakes made with graphite (pencil lead). * I need to sharpen my pencil, but the pencil eraser is still good. * This drawing has many corrections; the pencil eraser is nearly worn out.

Advanced Usage

• "to wear down the pencil eraser": To use the eraser so much that it becomes small or used up through friction.
  • She worked on the math problem for so long that she wore down the pencil eraser.

Variants and Related Words

• Eraser (n): The general term for any tool used to remove marks. A "pencil eraser" is a type of eraser.
• Rubber (n): Chiefly British English synonym for "eraser."
• Pencil with an eraser (n phrase): Describes a complete pencil that includes an eraser attached to it.

Synonyms

• Rubber (UK)
• Eraser

Related Phrases

• Chew on the pencil eraser: A nervous habit of biting or chewing on the eraser end of a pencil.
  • Stop chewing on the pencil eraser; it's a bad habit.

Noun

1. an eraser made of rubber (or of a synthetic material with properties similar to rubber); commonly mounted at one end of a pencil