verb
burrow
BUH-roh
Burrow (verb) means to dig a tunnel or hole, typically as a home or hiding place. Example: “Rabbits burrow into soft soil to build their warrens.”
verb
1
To dig a tunnel or hole, typically as a home or hiding place.
"Rabbits burrow into soft soil to build their warrens."
2
To push or nestle into something for warmth, comfort, or safety.
"The cat burrowed under the blankets to keep warm."
noun
1
A tunnel or hole dug by an animal as a home.
"The fox retreated into its burrow at the first sign of danger."
How to use burrow
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo dig a hole to live in, or to snuggle into something for shelter and comfort.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "borrow" (to take something temporarily) — they sound similar but are unrelated in meaning.
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like burrow.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Third person singular
- burrows
- Past tense
- burrowed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Rabbits _____ into soft soil to build their warrens.
Etymology
From Middle English words for a "refuge for an animal," ultimately related to "borough" and "bury" — all connected to the idea of a protected, dug-out shelter.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for burrow
See all rhymes for burrow →Frequently asked questions
What does “burrow” mean?
The word “burrow” means to dig a tunnel or hole, typically as a home or hiding place. In plain terms, to dig a hole to live in, or to snuggle into something for shelter and comfort.
How do you pronounce “burrow”?
“Burrow” is pronounced BUH-roh (/ˈbʌɹoʊ/ in IPA).
How do you use “burrow” in a sentence?
Here is “burrow” used in a sentence: “Rabbits burrow into soft soil to build their warrens.”
What part of speech is “burrow”?
Depending on how it is used, “burrow” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “burrow” come from?
The word “burrow” comes from Middle English. From Middle English words for a "refuge for an animal," ultimately related to "borough" and "bury" — all connected to the idea of a protected, dug-out shelter.
How many meanings does “burrow” have?
“Burrow” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to dig a tunnel or hole, typically as a home or hiding place.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include burrow:
