imperforate

[ im-pur-fer-it, -fuh-reyt ]

adjective

1. Also im·perfo·rated. not perforate; having no perforation.
2. Philately. (of a number of stamps joined together) lacking the perforations usually separating individual stamps.

noun

1. an imperforate stamp.

imperforate

/ ɪmˈpɜːfərɪt; -ˌreɪt /

adjective

1. not perforated
2. See perforate
   (of a postage stamp) not provided with perforation or any other means of separation imperf Compare perforate
3. anatomy (of a bodily part, such as the anus) without the normal opening

Derived Forms

• imˌperfoˈration, noun

Other Words From

• im·perfo·ration noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of imperforate¹

First recorded in 1665–75; im- ² + perforate

Example Sentences

Although made and approved, this stamp is said to have been withheld from issue in this imperforate condition.

From Project Gutenberg

The 2nd or 1851 issue, as it is called in the circular, actually consisted of two series, the imperforate and perforate.

From Project Gutenberg

Attempts are, however, made to palm off trimmed reprints as imperforate specimens.

From Project Gutenberg

The reprinted three cents has the outer top and bottom lines of the original imperforate stamp.

From Project Gutenberg

Rhabdamminina, rab-da-mi-nī′na, n. a group of marine imperforate foraminiferous protozoans.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• flawless
• perfect
• unblemished
• unbroken
• unharmed
• unhurt
• unscathed
• untouched