Meaning of the word burr in English

What does burr mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

burr

US /bɝː/
UK /bɜːr/

Noun

1.

a rough, prickly case around the seeds of some plants

Example:
My dog came back from the walk covered in burrs.
She had to carefully remove the burrs from her sweater.
2.

a rough edge or ridge left on a material, especially metal, after it has been cast, cut, or drilled

Example:
He used a file to remove the burr from the cut metal edge.
The drill left a small burr on the plastic.
3.

a whirring sound

Example:
The old engine started with a low burr.
We could hear the constant burr of the cicadas in the summer heat.
4.

a rough pronunciation of the letter 'r', especially as characteristic of some regional accents

Example:
He spoke with a distinct Scottish burr.
Her voice had a soft, pleasant burr.

Verb

to make a whirring sound

Example:
The old refrigerator began to burr loudly.
The machinery continued to burr throughout the night.