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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Pests and diseases such as the coffee berry borer and coffee leaf rust can impact yields and quality. Jean Orlowski, Forbes.com, 28 July 2025 Emerald ash borers, also referred to as EABs, originated in Asia. Alessia Sandala, Nashville Tennessean, 21 July 2025 Once the borer has entered the stem, insecticides are useless. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 23 Apr. 2025 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 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Borer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/borer. Accessed 6 Aug. 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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