Eraser: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is widely used in American English when referring to the tool used to remove pencil marks from paper.

• I need an eraser to fix my mistake.
• Can you lend me your eraser? Mine is missing.

In British English, 'rubber' refers to the tool that erases pencil marks. In American English, 'rubber' can also mean a condom, which may lead to misunderstandings.

• Don’t forget to bring a rubber to the exam.
• She passed me a rubber to correct my drawing.

This phrase is clear and unambiguous, used to specify the type of eraser. It can be used in both British and American English.

• I prefer using a rubber eraser because it doesn’t smudge.
• The teacher gave us new rubber erasers for our art class.

Used in general situations when referring to a tool that removes pencil or pen marks from paper. This is the most common term.

• Can I borrow your eraser to correct my mistake?
• The teacher handed out pencils and erasers to the students.

Refers to a specific type of eraser that can be shaped by hand. It picks up graphite and charcoal particles when pressed against a drawing. Used primarily in art and design for detailed work and to create highlights.

• The artist shaped the kneaded eraser into a fine point to erase small details.
• Kneaded erasers are great for adjusting shading in sketches.

Specifically used in artistic contexts, often to describe a type of eraser that is gentle on paper and used by artists to remove or lighten pencil marks without damaging the surface.

• The art supply store sells a variety of art erasers for different techniques.
• He used an art eraser to perfect the shading in his drawing.

Digital context where a specific tool within software eliminates parts of a digital image or drawing, often referred to as a 'digital eraser.'

• Use the digital eraser to clean up the edges of your drawing.
• The photo editor offers an eraser tool for precise editing.

Similar to 'delete feature,' but emphasizes a specific tool or button within software designed for deletion purposes.

• The delete tool in the photo editing software helps users remove unwanted objects from their pictures.
• The document editor includes a delete tool to quickly get rid of selected text.

Commonly referred to in software or digital contexts, where a feature exists to remove digital content or data.

• The app’s delete feature allows users to remove unwanted files easily.
• Make sure to use the delete feature to clear out old emails.