Meaning & Definition of word "Puncture"

Puncture

/ˈpʌŋk.tʃər/

noun:

  • 1. A small hole made by piercing or penetrating something.
    • Example: The puncture in the tire caused it to deflate quickly.
  • 2. An act of puncturing or piercing.
    • Example: The puncture of the skin during the injection was barely noticeable.

verb:

  • 1. To make a small hole in something by piercing it.
    • Example: She used a needle to puncture the balloon, causing it to pop.
  • 2. To weaken or damage something, often in a figurative sense.
    • Example: The negative review may puncture his confidence as a writer.

Etymology

From Latin punctura, meaning 'a prick'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

puncture someone's confidence:

To damage or undermine someone's self-assurance.

puncture wound:

A type of injury caused by a pointed object penetrating the skin.

Related Words

perforation:

The act of making a hole or holes in something.

incision:

A cut made in the skin or flesh.

Slang Meanings of puncture

Meaning: To damage something critically.

Example Sentence: That mistake really punctured my chances for a promotion.