bur

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun seed vessel having hooks or prickles
  2. noun small bit used in dentistry or surgery
  3. verb remove the burrs from

Etymology

From Middle English burre, of unknown origin but probably from North Germanic (Scandinavian) source or from Old English byrst (“bristle”). See also burr. Compare English bristle, Danish burre (“bur, burdock”), Norwegian borre, Swedish borre, and Old Norse burst (“bristle”).

In classic literature

Synonyms

burr

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