perforation

noun

per·​fo·​ra·​tion ˌpər-fə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the act or process of perforating

2

a

: a hole or pattern made by or as if by piercing or boring

b

: one of the series of holes (as between rows of postage stamps) in a sheet that serve as an aid in separation

Synonyms of perforation

• puncture

Examples of perforation in a Sentence

an infection that can cause perforation of the intestine

during the lesson the boy absentmindedly made perforations in his paper with his pencil

Recent Examples on the Web

One padded strap crossed the foot, while small perforations covered the vamp and a slim gold insert ran vertically toward the toe. — Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 6 July 2026

Most models come with a carrying case that’s designed to protect the blades and keep the whole thing dry with perforations or vents. — Sara Coughlin, Allure, 5 July 2026

With perforations for breathability, the Center Court Leather Sneakers are the shoe for sweltering days. — Cheryl Wagemann, InStyle, 2 July 2026

The perforations allow the wood to both absorb and balance sound, helping to reduce noise across any space. — Nia Bowers, USA Today, 29 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for perforation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

perforation

noun

per·​fo·​ra·​tion ˌpər-fə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the act or process of perforating

2

: a hole, pattern, or series of holes made by perforating

Medical Definition

perforation

noun

per·​fo·​ra·​tion ˌpər-fə-ˈrā-shən 

1

: the act or process of perforating

specifically : the penetration of a body part through accident or disease

spontaneous perforation of the sigmoid colon in the presence of diverticulosis

—The Journal of the American Medical Association

2

a

: a rupture in a body part caused especially by accident or disease

b

: a natural opening in an organ or body part