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

The sneaker still offers performance features, including perforations for ventilation, a double-stitched toe for durability, and an EVA midsole for stability and comfort. —Kristina Rutkowski, Vogue, 2 Apr. 2025

What could be causing such an obstruction and near-deadly perforation? —Rebecca Alter, Vulture, 2 Apr. 2025

The trim silhouette is more spiffy than sporty, though the perforations on top look breathable, like a running or basketball shoe. —Alyssa Grabinski, People.com, 8 Feb. 2025

For example, shallow perforations that enable light to piece through define Niisato’s teapot, while 3D flowers adorn Fukasawa’s interpretation. —Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 7 Apr. 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