burrow - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
burrow Word Meanings
- to dig a hole in the ground for shelter
- a hole or tunnel dug by an animal
- to seek refuge or conceal oneself
burrow Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
burrow Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈbʌrəʊ/
US
/ˈbɜːroʊ/
burrow Word Etymology
Root: bur- (to dig) + -row (related to structure). Origin: Old English 'byrgan', meaning to hide or shelter. Memory: Picture a rabbit burrowing underground to create a cozy nest.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Burrow can function as both a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to dig a hole or tunnel in the ground to create shelter or a hiding place. As a noun, it refers to the hole or tunnel itself, or to the act of sheltering oneself by going underground. Animals such as rabbits, moles, and rats routinely burrow to escape cold or danger, while people may burrow into a blanket or under a bed to feel secure. The word carries imagery of patient digging and a snug, protected interior space.
Usage Reminders
- - Burrow has two forms: verb and noun.
- - Use burrow to describe both digging and the hole itself.
- - Don’t confuse burrow with borrow; they sound similar but have different meanings.
- - Common phrasal uses: burrow into, burrow under.
- - Pair with verbs like dig, hide, shelter for natural examples.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing burrow with borrow due to similar sound.
- Thinking burrow only refers to animal holes, not human actions.
- Believing burrow always means going deep underground, not just a small hole.
- Using burrow to mean ‘to borrow’ in sense of borrowing something.
- Mistaking burrow for ‘burden’ because of phonetic similarity.
Thinking Differences
English speakers often visualize burrow as both an action and a space, so learners tend to shift too easily between digging and the hole without noting the noun form may refer to the space itself.
Learning Tips
- Visualize a small animal creating a safe space.
- Practice both verb and noun forms with different subjects.
- Use collocations like burrow into and burrow under.
- Group with related verbs: dig, hide, shelter.
- Do quick flashcards comparing burrow and borrow.
- Read animal behavior passages to reinforce context.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'burrow' mean?
A.To fly rapidly
B.To dig a hole or tunnel
C.To swim gracefully
D.To shout loudly
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'burrow' correctly?
A.He needs to burrow the car after parking it.
B.She will burrow to the top of the class.
C.The rabbit decided to burrow into the soft soil.
D.They burrow to solve the complex math problem.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'burrow'?
A.Float
B.Excavate
C.Sprout
D.Walk
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'burrow'?
A.Sing
B.Fly
C.Surface
D.Swim
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where this word is applicable?
A.A dog dug up the yard looking for buried bones.
B.The child went outside to burrow in the garden.
C.A bird sat on the branch singing a cheerful song.
D.The car sped down the highway.
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