borer

noun

bor·​er ˈbȯr-ər 

1

: a tool used for boring

2

a

: shipworm

b

: an insect that bores in the woody parts of plants

Examples of borer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

That leaves the corporation flush enough to cover big-ticket items like repairing the wooden pylons that are constantly being eaten away by marine borers. —Justin Davidson, Curbed, 3 July 2024

Unfortunately, iris foliage is susceptible to several diseases as well as an insect called the iris borer. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 3 Oct. 2024

Lakewood city leaders have been monitoring and treating large, healthy ash trees on public property for several years knowing the ash borer would eventually make its way to the city, Thill said. —Katie Langford, The Denver Post, 19 Sep. 2024

Before Winter Cutting back bearded iris foliage helps prevent diseases and pests, especially iris borers, from overwintering in the leaves and causing problems next year. —Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing borer

• corn borer
• emerald ash borer
• European corn borer
• lesser cornstalk borer
• lesser peach tree borer
• peach tree borer
• southwestern corn borer

Kids Definition

borer

noun

bor·​er ˈbōr-ər 

ˈbȯr-

1

: one that bores

especially : a tool used for boring

2

a

: shipworm

b

: an insect that bores in the woody parts of plants