perforator

perforator

A worker uses a perforator to drill into a concrete wall.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A tool or device that makes holes: a "perforator" is an instrument, often mechanical or powered, used to create a series of small holes in a material, such as paper, leather, or metal. It is commonly found in offices for punching holes in documents for binding or filing.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • The secretary used a perforator to punch holes in the stack of reports. (A device that makes holes in paper for binding.)
    • In archaeology, a flint perforator was found, used by ancient peoples to drill holes in beads. (A primitive tool for piercing materials.)
Advanced Usage

  • "perforator" in medicine: a surgical instrument used to puncture or create an opening in a tissue or organ, e.g., during a biopsy or drainage procedure.

    • The surgeon carefully inserted a perforator to drain the abscess. (A medical tool for creating a small hole.)

  • "perforator" in biology: a structure or organ that bores through a surface, such as the ovipositor of certain insects.

    • The wasp's perforator allows it to lay eggs inside a tree trunk. (A biological piercing structure.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Perforate (verb): to make a hole or series of holes in something.

    • The machine can perforate up to 100 sheets of paper at once. (To pierce with holes.)

  • Perforation (noun): the act of making holes, or a hole itself.

    • The perforation in the stamp allows it to be easily torn off. (A line of small holes.)

  • Perforated (adjective): having holes or a series of holes.

    • The perforated screen allows air to flow through. (Designed with holes.)
Synonyms
  • Punch: a tool or device for making holes, especially in paper or metal.
  • Drill: a tool for making cylindrical holes in hard materials.
  • Piercer: an instrument used to puncture a surface.
Related Idioms
  • "Perforator" is not commonly used in idioms; however, related terms appear in technical contexts:
    • "To put a hole through something": to perforate completely.
      • The bullet put a hole through the wall. (Created a perforation.)
Phrasal Verbs
  • Perforate through: to pierce entirely through a material.
    • The needle perforated through the leather with ease. (Passed completely through.)