What does perforated mean?
Perforated describes something that has been made with holes or openings, usually in a deliberate and often regular pattern. The word is especially common for paper, metal, plastic, and fabric: perforated paper can be torn into individual sections, while perforated metal or plastic may be used where ventilation, drainage, or controlled separation is needed. The word can also describe the result of boring or punching holes through a material. Its usual implication is that the openings are intentional and part of the object’s design, unlike the accidental damage suggested by “punctured.” In technical and manufacturing contexts, “perforated” may refer to a surface or component designed to let air, light, liquid, or small particles pass through. Because “perforate” and “perforation” are directly related forms, the word appears in descriptions of perforated plates, panels, templates, and stationery.
Having one or more holes or openings, especially holes made in a regular pattern.
"The technician replaced the perforated plate with a solid cover."
The holes are generally intentional and may serve ventilation, drainage, separation, or fastening purposes.
To make holes in or pierce a material.
"The machine perforated the sheet before packaging it."
This is the past tense and past participle of “perforate,” and it is less common in this function than the adjective.
Perforated paper turns one continuous sheet into a practical tear-off form without needing scissors.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does perforated come from?
The word comes from Latin perforare, meaning “to bore through” or “pierce,” built from per- meaning “through” and forare, “to bore.” Its development in English follows the common pattern in which the verb “perforate” gives rise to the participial adjective “perforated.” Related forms include “perforation,” referring to a hole or the process of making holes, and “foramen,” a Latin-derived term for an opening or passage.
Related word forms
How perforated is actually used
“Perforated” is commonly used for materials with deliberately made holes, especially paper, metal, and plastic. In technical contexts, it can mean provided with passageways or openings; “punctured” is more commonly used for accidental damage.
Easily confused with perforated
“Perforated” describes a material made with holes, often deliberately and regularly, whereas “punctured” usually describes an object damaged by a sharp object.