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

• pinhole
• pinprick
• prick
• punch
• puncture
• stab

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

Kane Gender-inclusive Revive Shoe Ideal for those seeking a functional recovery shoe with a bit of style, these Kane shoes have breathable perforations to keep your feet cool. —Kristine Thomason, Travel + Leisure, 22 Apr. 2025

When swallowed, the small lithium batteries often get stuck in the throat and saliva triggers an electric current, which can lead to severe burning, esophageal perforation, vocal cord paralysis and more. —Meredith Wilshere, People.com, 8 June 2025

Brogue perforations line the wingtip toe cap, and contrast stitching accentuates each panel—echoing the clean lines of mid-century clubhouse footwear. —Maggie Clancy For Footwear News, Robb Report, 27 May 2025

That's impressive, considering the four included fans and all the perforations. —PCMAG, 15 Mar. 2025

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