A borer can refer to both a person and a tool involved in the process of boring holes in materials such as wood, metal, or rock. In the modern context, it is most often used in reference to mechanical drilling tools. Historically, however, it has also referred to insects, particularly those that bore into trees or wooden structures. The term's use in pest control has become more widespread as the understanding of various wood-boring insects, such as termites and beetles, has increased.
In agriculture, borers are typically seen as destructive pests. However, in engineering and construction, a borer is an essential tool used in the creation of holes in materials for various purposes, such as assembling structures, creating pipelines, or laying cables. The development of advanced drilling technology has allowed for more efficient and precise boring, contributing to innovations in the energy, telecommunications, and construction sectors.