1 C1 neutral
(Engineering) To enlarge or precisely shape the interior of a cylindrical hole using a boring tool.
"The mechanic had to bore out the engine cylinders to fit the larger pistons."
separable
bore out
C1 neutral separable transitive
To enlarge or shape a cylindrical hole using a boring tool; used in engineering and mechanics.
In plain English
To make a hole bigger or more precise using a special drilling machine.
What does "bore out" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To use a boring tool outward — to increase the diameter of an existing cylindrical space.
Actually means
To make a hole bigger or more precise using a special drilling machine.
Usage tip
Primarily a technical engineering or mechanical term. Refers to the process of enlarging or finishing the interior of a cylindrical hole to exact dimensions using a boring bar or lathe. Common in automotive contexts (boring out an engine cylinder). Not related to the sense of causing boredom.
Words that pair with "bore out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
cylinder engine hole barrel lathe block
How to conjugate "bore out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
bore out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
bores out
he/she/it
Past simple
bored out
yesterday
Past participle
bored out
have + pp
-ing form
boring out
continuous
Hear "bore out" in the wild
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