center punch
- noun
- /ˈsɛntər pʌnʧ/
- Specialized
:
punzón
- He used a center punch to mark the spot before drilling the hole into the steel plate.
Examples
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Make a small indentation with a center punch so the drill bit doesn't wander.
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The center punch left a clear mark, ensuring accurate placement for the screws.
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He used a center punch to mark the metal.
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The center punch is essential for precise drilling.
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He used a center punch to mark the spot before drilling a hole in the metal sheet.
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To prevent the drill bit from slipping, it's important to make a small indentation with a center punch.
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The technician applied a center punch to create a mark for accurate drilling of the bolt holes.
Synonyms
33
5.2
A small metal tool used to make holes by hitting or pressing
2
4.0
A tool that makes holes in things like paper or leather
Surface Forms
Morphology
The meaning 'to make a small indentation or hole in the middle as a guide for drilling' follows directly from combining 'center' (middle) with 'punch' (to make a hole/indentation). This is a simple location+action composition common across languages and contexts—although somewhat technical, a B1 learner who knows both constituents should be able to infer the meaning.
Etymology
The noun center punch is a small tool with a sharp point that makes a dent in metal or wood so a drill bit will not slip. It puts a small mark at the piece's center with a quick punch, so the tool's name shows it makes the guide mark for drilling.