perforate
UK: /ˈpɜː.fə.reɪt/ | US: /ˈpɜːr.fə.reɪt/
vt. to pierce or make a hole or holes through something
vt. to create a series of holes to allow easy separation (e.g., perforated paper)
adj. (rare) having holes or openings
The word "perforate" traces back to Latin perforatus (past participle of perforare), combining per- (through) and forare (to pierce). It reflects the literal action of making holes through a material, a concept retained in modern usage. The morphemes align perfectly with the original Latin structure, preserving the spelling and logic of "piercing through."
The machine perforates the paper to create tear-off coupons.
Surgeons use lasers to perforate tiny holes in the bone.
The stamp sheet is perforated for easy separation.
Ancient tools were designed to perforate leather for stitching.
The artist perforated the metal sheet to create a light-filtering effect.