rough projection left on a workpiece after drilling or cutting
"The machinist had to file off the sharp burr that remained on the metal edge after drilling."
United States politician who served as vice president under Jefferson; he mortally wounded his political rival Alexander Hamilton in a duel and fled south (1756-1836)
"The historical drama vividly portrayed Aaron Burr's infamous duel where he fatally shot Alexander Hamilton before fleeing the scene."
rotary file for smoothing rough edges left on a workpiece
"After grinding down the metal bracket, I switched to a burr to smooth out the jagged edges before painting it."
A sharp, pointy object, such as a sliver or splinter.
"The old oak tree had a large burr on its trunk that caught my eye while I was hiking through the forest."
A rough humming sound.
A metal ring at the top of the hand-rest on a spear.
Alternative spelling of burl
In plain English: A burr is a strange, bumpy growth that can appear on trees.
"The woodworker carefully sanded away the burr on the maple branch."
Usage: This prickly plant growth clings to clothing and fur; think of it as what you pick off your socks after walking through tall grass. Don't confuse it with "burial," which relates to funerals.
To pronounce with a uvular "r".
"He rolled his 'r's in a heavy French accent that made every word sound like it was wrapped in velvet."
In plain English: To burr is to speak with a rolled or trilled "r" sound, like you might hear in some European languages.
"He learned to burr his speech after spending years in France."
Usage: Use "to burr" when describing someone's speech that has a rolled or trilled "r," as in a Scottish or French accent. It indicates a distinct, often guttural pronunciation of the 'r' sound.
A surname.
"The local library is being renamed after Mr. Burr, who served as its first president for twenty years."