puncture
2 synonyms for puncture, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A small hole made by something sharp, especially in a tyre.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
A small hole made by something sharp, especially in a tyre.
“We had to stop because of a puncture.”
2. verb
To pierce something, making a small hole, or to spoil or weaken something suddenly.
“A nail punctured the front tyre.”
How to use puncture
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
puncture a tyre
puncture the silence
puncture someone's confidence
Etymology
From Late Latin punctura, from pungere, "to prick."
Full origin of puncture →Frequently asked questions
What does “puncture” mean?
The word “puncture” means a small hole made by something sharp, especially in a tyre. In plain terms, a small hole from something sharp, or to make one — also used figuratively for deflating confidence or an idea.
How do you pronounce “puncture”?
“Puncture” is pronounced PUHNGKT-shuh (/ˈpʌŋkt͡ʃɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “puncture” in a sentence?
Here is “puncture” used in a sentence: “We had to stop because of a puncture.”
What part of speech is “puncture”?
Depending on how it is used, “puncture” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “puncture” come from?
The word “puncture” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin punctura, from pungere, "to prick.".
Is “puncture” a common word?
“Puncture” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “puncture” have?
“Puncture” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a small hole made by something sharp, especially in a tyre.
