borer

noun

bor·​er ˈbȯr-ər How to pronounce borer (audio)
1
: a tool used for boring
2
a
b
: an insect that bores in the woody parts of plants

Examples of borer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Plus, starting new edible crops in July also avoids some pests, such as squash vine borers, which may have moved through their life cycle and won’t affect your baby plants. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 8 July 2025 Emerald ash borer beetles were first discovered in Michigan in 2002 and have since killed millions of ash trees nationwide. Katie Langford, Denver Post, 26 June 2025 Squash vine borers attack many plants, including summer squash, winter squash, and pumpkins. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 25 June 2025 Be vigilant against squash bugs and squash vine borers to get the most out of your plants. Meghan Overdeep, Southern Living, 27 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for borer

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of borer was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Borer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/borer. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

borer

noun
bor·​er ˈbōr-ər How to pronounce borer (audio)
ˈbȯr-
1
: one that bores
especially : a tool used for boring
2
a
b
: an insect that bores in the woody parts of plants
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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