Puncture Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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puncture

[ˈpʌŋktʃər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

medical

A small hole in a tire, caused by a sharp object such as a nail or piece of glass, resulting in loss of air.

Synonyms

hole, perforation, tear.

Examples of usage

  • The puncture in my tire caused me to pull over to the side of the road.
  • He had to repair the puncture before he could continue driving.
Context #2 | Verb

medical

To pierce or make a hole in something with a sharp object.

Synonyms

penetrate, pierce, prick.

Examples of usage

  • The nurse will puncture your skin with the needle for the blood test.
  • Be careful not to puncture the balloon with that pin.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Puncture wounds can lead to infections if not treated properly, as they often introduce bacteria deep into the skin.
  • In medical terms, a puncture is often used to refer to needle insertion for drawing blood or administering medications.

Everyday Life

  • Most commonly, puncturing refers to flat tires caused by sharp objects like nails or glass on the road.
  • Balloons can puncture easily, which is why they pop when something sharp touches them.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, a puncture often signifies danger, like when a villain pops a balloon or tires, revealing tension.
  • Cartoons frequently use punctures for humor, such as a character stepping on a nail or an overly dramatic balloon pop.

Safety

  • Puncture injuries are a leading cause of hospital visits, especially among children who are often unaware of sharp objects.
  • Wear protective gear when handling sharp tools to prevent accidental puncturing, especially in workshops or sports.

Origin of 'puncture'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'punctura', meaning 'prick' or 'sting', linking it to sharp objects.
  • It first appeared in English in the 14th century, originally related to needlework before expanding to other uses.

The word 'puncture' originated in the late Middle English period from the Latin word 'punctura', which means 'a pricking'. Over time, the term evolved to refer to making a hole or piercing a surface with a sharp object. The concept of puncturing has been prevalent in various fields such as medicine, automotive, and everyday life.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,691, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.