Devoid: meaning, definitions and examples

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devoid

[dɪˈvɔɪd ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

lack of something

Completely lacking in something. Without, or completely without something. Empty, vacant, or destitute.

Synonyms

destitute, empty, lacking, vacant, without.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
devoid	Used to describe something that is completely without a particular quality or element. The desert landscape seemed devoid of any life. Her voice was devoid of emotion.
lacking	Used to describe something that is missing or insufficient in a particular quality or quantity. His argument was lacking in substantial evidence. The soup is good, but it's lacking in salt.
without	Used to indicate the absence of something or someone, often in a more general sense. He traveled without his passport. They managed to complete the project without any help.
empty	Used to describe something that has nothing inside or contains no people. Can also be used metaphorically. The box was empty when he opened it. After the party, the room was empty and quiet. She felt an empty feeling inside after the breakup.
vacant	Primarily used to describe a place or position that is unoccupied or available. There were no vacant seats in the bus. The position of the manager has been vacant since last month.
destitute	Typically used to describe someone or something that is extremely poor and lacking the means to provide of themselves, often implying suffering. After losing his job, he was left destitute and without any savings. Many refugees arrive destitute and in need of immediate assistance.

Examples of usage

The room was devoid of furniture.
His speech was devoid of emotion.
The desert was devoid of life.
The box was devoid of any contents.
Her eyes were devoid of any spark.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Old French 'deveoir', which means 'to take away'.
Originally, it meant 'to be taken away from something' and evolved into its current meaning around the early 15th century.
The prefix 'de-' implies removal, while 'void' refers to emptiness.

Literature

In many literary works, characters might feel devoid of hope, creating a deep emotional impact on readers.
Famous writers like Edgar Allan Poe and T.S. Eliot often explored themes of emptiness and desolation.
Poets use the term to convey a sense of longing or loss, resonating with the experiences of isolation.

Psychology

Feeling devoid of joy or purpose can be a symptom of depression, highlighting the emotional effect of the term.
Therapists often help clients address feelings of being devoid to rebuild connections and fulfillment in life.
The concept of 'existential void' discusses a fundamental emptiness that can lead to a search for meaning.

Pop Culture

In movies, a character being 'devoid' of emotions often signifies a dramatic journey toward rediscovering feelings.
Songs frequently use the concept to express themes of heartbreak or loss, resonating with listeners' experiences.
Popular television series might depict characters in dystopian settings who feel devoid of humanity.

Philosophy

Philosophers often discuss the notion of a 'void' in existentialism, linking it to human freedom and choice.
The idea of being devoid can evoke questions about identity and existence, engaging thinkers in deep discussions.
Some philosophical traditions view the concept of void as necessary for understanding fullness in life.

Translations

Translations of the word "devoid" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desprovido

🇮🇳 विहीन

🇩🇪 ohne

🇮🇩 tanpa

🇺🇦 позбавлений

🇵🇱 pozbawiony

🇯🇵 欠いている

🇫🇷 dépourvu

🇪🇸 carente

🇹🇷 yoksun

🇰🇷 결여된

🇸🇦 خالي من

🇨🇿 bez

🇸🇰 bez

🇨🇳 缺乏

🇸🇮 brez

🇮🇸 án

🇰🇿 жоқ

🇬🇪 მოკლებული

🇦🇿 məhrum

🇲🇽 carente

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,569 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

...
8566 exempted
8567 interfering
8568 bowel
8569 devoid
8570 speedily
8571 thirst
8572 excepted
...