Holey

The adjective 'holey' describes something that has one or more holes, gaps, or perforations. This can apply to a wide range of objects, from physical materials like fabric and paper to abstract concepts like arguments or theories. The term often implies a degree of imperfection or damage, though the extent of that imperfection can vary greatly. Whether the holes are intentional (like those in Swiss cheese) or unintentional (like those in a moth-eaten sweater), 'holey' highlights a disruption of the material's original, unbroken form. The term can also be used metaphorically, suggesting flaws, weaknesses, or incompleteness.

Holey meaning with examples

• The old fishing net was almost entirely holed, with numerous tears and gaps that made it ineffective for catching fish. It was patched with whatever material that was available, but the repairs still left it very holey. The fisherman sighed, realizing it was beyond saving, and would have to buy another one. The loss was very costly and he'd miss fishing the weekend.
• The bread was perfectly round, but extremely holey. The baker beamed with pride, showing off the characteristic 'eyes' that indicated a well-risen loaf. It was delicious and light and a truly beautiful example of bread. Everyone asked the recipe, but the baker was sworn to secrecy on this very holey bread.
• The farmer lamented his holey socks, worn thin from years of working in the fields. He'd been so focused on the harvest that he hadn't noticed the holes that have grown so large. They provided little warmth during the cold winter, and he knew he would soon need to go to the store. Those holey socks had served him well for several winters.
• The research paper presented a holey argument, failing to account for several crucial variables, creating a flawed model. Critics pointed out these weaknesses, and the whole premise was rendered untrustworthy. The researchers were forced to retract the paper, in a very shameful turn of events.
• The old, holey fence surrounding the garden provided little protection from the rabbits, which continued to devour the vegetables. It looked quite old and worn, and the gaps were larger than expected, therefore allowing entry. The gardener made a plan to make it rabbit-proof, which would fix this holey and awful fence.