pore over

WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2026

pore¹ /pɔr/   v., pored, por•ing. 

1. pore over, [~ + over + object] to read or study with focused attention, concentration, or hard work:
   They found him poring over old manuscripts in the library.

pore² /pɔr/   n. [countable]

1. Anatomy, Botany a very small opening, as in the skin or a leaf, for perspiration, absorption, etc.

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2026

pore¹  (pôr, pōr), v.i., pored, por•ing. 

1. to read or study with steady attention or application:
   a scholar poring over a rare old manuscript.
2. to gaze earnestly or steadily:
   to pore over a painting.
3. to meditate or ponder intently (usually fol. by over, on, or upon):
   He pored over the strange events of the preceding evening.

• ?
• Middle English pouren 1250–1300

Synonyms

• 3. ponder, scrutinize, peruse, examine.

pore²  (pôr, pōr), n. 

1. Anatomy, Botany a minute opening or orifice, as in the skin or a leaf, for perspiration, absorption, etc.
2. Rocks a minute interstice, as in a rock.

• Greek póros passage; see emporium, ford
• Late Latin porus
• Middle English poore 1350–1400

pore′like′, adj.