An office tool used to punch holes in paper so that it can be filed in a folder or binder.
example
Kannst du mir bitte den Locher geben? Ich muss diese Dokumente abheften.
Could you please give me the hole punch? I need to file these documents.
Usage tips
Word structure
The word 'Locher' (hole punch) is derived from the noun 'das Loch' (hole). The ending '-er' in German can refer both to a tool (something that does something) and to a person. This explains the two meanings of the word: the office tool and the historical job title.
EXAMPLE
Der neue Locher stanzt bis zu 20 Blätter gleichzeitig.
The new hole punch punches up to 20 sheets at the same time.
Word family
'Der Locher' (the hole punch) belongs to the word family around 'das Loch' (hole). The related verb is 'lochen' and means to make a hole in something, usually in paper.
EXAMPLE
Ich muss diese Blätter noch lochen, bevor ich sie abhefte.
I still need to punch holes in these sheets before I file them.
Typical collocations
In everyday office language, 'Locher' (hole punch) is often used with verbs like 'benutzen' (to use), 'brauchen' (to need), or 'sich leihen' (to borrow). The goal is usually to 'abheften' (file) documents or papers.
EXAMPLE
Könnte ich mir kurz deinen Locher leihen?
Could I borrow your hole punch for a moment?
Register and usage
The meaning of a person who punches punch cards is outdated today and is only used in historical contexts about the early days of computer technology. In everyday life, it always means the office tool.
EXAMPLE
In alten Rechenzentren arbeiteten viele Locherinnen und Locher.
In old data centers, many female and male punch operators worked.