drilling

noun

dril·​ling ˈdri-liŋ How to pronounce drilling (audio)

Word History

Etymology

modification of German Drillich, from Middle High German drilich fabric woven with a threefold thread, from Old High German drilīh made up of three threads, from Latin trilic-, trilix, from tri- + licium thread

First Known Use

1640, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of drilling was in 1640

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Cite this Entry

“Drilling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/drilling. Accessed 27 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

drilling

noun
dril·​ling ˈdril-iŋ How to pronounce drilling (audio)

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