"Pore" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /pɔr/. The word refers to a tiny opening in the skin that allows sweat and oil to escape. It is easy to confuse "pore" with another word, "pour", which is pronounced with the IPA phonetic transcription /pɔːr/. "Pour" means to transfer a liquid from one container to another. It is important to pay attention to the spelling and pronunciation of these two words to avoid misunderstandings in communication.
Pore, as a noun, refers to a small opening or hole on the surface of an object, typically found in living organisms, particularly in human and animal skin. These tiny openings are responsible for several important functions, such as facilitating the passage of fluids, gases, or particles in and out of the organism.
In human skin, pores play a crucial role in the regulation of temperature and sweating. Sweat glands release perspiration through these openings, aiding in the body's cooling mechanism. Pores also assist in the release of sebum, an oily substance that moisturizes and protects the skin. The appearance of pores can vary based on various factors, including genetics, age, and skin type, leading to differences in their size and visibility.
"Pore" can also be used as a verb, describing the act of closely examining something with great attention or concentration. When individuals pore over a text, document, or image, they engage in a meticulous and detailed examination, often in order to comprehend, analyze, or understand it thoroughly.
Overall, whether as a noun or verb, pore refers to a small opening on a surface or the act of closely examining something.
A hole, perforation, or foramen; one of the minute openings of the sweat-glands of the skin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
• One of the very minute openings or interstices in the skin through which the perspiration or sweat passes to the surface; any minute opening or cell on the surface of an organised body.
• To look on steadily and minutely; to look close and long.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "pore" has an interesting etymology. It can be traced back to the Old English word "porian", which meant "to examine or study closely". This Old English word ultimately derived from the Latin word "pōrous", which meant "passage" or "channel". In Middle English, the word shifted in meaning to specifically refer to the small openings on the skin through which sweat and other substances are discharged. Today, "pore" is used to describe both the openings on the skin and the act of careful examination or deep thought.