VocabDictionary

puncture

/ˈpʌŋk.tʃər/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A small hole in a thin material, such as a tire or skin, caused by a sharp object.

Example Sentences:
  • We had to stop on the side of the road because the car had a puncture.
  • The doctor checked the wound to ensure the puncture was not too deep.
2.verb

To make a small hole in something with a sharp object, or to suddenly deflate or cause to fail.

Example Sentences:
  • A stray nail managed to puncture the front tire of my bicycle.
  • His arrogant attitude quickly punctured the lighthearted mood of the party.
Share & Learn With Friends

Share “puncture” with study groups, classmates, or on your social channels.

English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “puncture”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'punctura', meaning 'a pricking', which comes from the past participle stem of 'pungere', meaning 'to prick or sting'. This root is also the ancestor of words like 'point', 'punch', and 'compunction'.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'punk' rocker with a spiked jacket who might 'puncture' a balloon if he gets too close.

Frequently Asked Questions About “puncture

1. What is the meaning of “puncture” in English?

In English, puncture (noun) is defined as: “A small hole in a thin material, such as a tire or skin, caused by a sharp object.”.

2. How do you use “puncture” in a sentence?

We had to stop on the side of the road because the car had a puncture.

3. What are English synonyms of “puncture”?

Common synonyms include:perforation,rupture,prick,penetration

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “puncture”?

Derived from the Latin 'punctura', meaning 'a pricking', which comes from the past participle stem of 'pungere', meaning 'to prick or sting'. This root is also the ancestor of words like 'point', 'punch', and 'compunction'.