Filler: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe unnecessary words or phrases that are inserted into speech or writing when there is no content to convey. Often seen as having a negative tone because it can make communication less clear.

• He uses a lot of filler in his speech, like 'um' and 'uh'.
• Try to avoid fillers when you write your essay.

Specifically refers to words or sounds used when someone is unsure or needs a moment to think. It can indicate uncertainty or a need for extra time to formulate thoughts.

• Her speech was filled with hesitation words like 'well,' 'you know,' and 'um.'
• Hesitation words can sometimes make you appear less confident.

A short word or phrase that expresses emotion or reaction, often standing alone or inserted into a sentence. It is not necessarily a pause or hesitation and can indicate a variety of emotions, such as surprise, joy, or annoyance.

• Wow! That was amazing!
• Oops, I didn't mean to spill that.

Used to signify a word or sound inserted during a pause in speech, typically to hold the speaker's place while they think. Often used to maintain the flow of conversation.

• She kept saying 'um' and 'like' as pause fillers.
• I need you to watch for pause fillers in your presentation.

Used to fill in small gaps, holes, or imperfections in surfaces, often before painting or finishing.

• He applied filler to the wall to cover the nail holes
• The carpenter used wood filler to repair the dents in the table

Utilized for sealing windows, fixing cracks, and filling voids, particularly in woodworking and glazing.

• The glazier applied putty around the new window pane
• He filled the crack in the wooden door with putty

Commonly used to create a waterproof seal around edges or joints, often in bathrooms, kitchens, and windows.

• She used caulk to seal the edges of the bathtub
• The handyman caulked around the window to prevent leaks

A general term for substances used to block the passage of fluids through surfaces or joints, often in construction or automotive settings.

• The mechanic applied a sealant to the engine gasket
• Builders used a sealant to waterproof the roof

Use 'filler' to describe content or material that doesn't add much value or substance. Often used in conversations, writing, or food products when something is added just to take up space.

• The essay was full of filler and lacked real argument.
• Many TV shows add fillers to extend the episode duration.

Use 'junk food' to describe food that is unhealthy because it's high in sugar, fat, or salt. Often used in contexts discussing poor dietary habits or unhealthy food choices. This term has a negative connotation.

• Too much junk food can lead to health problems.
• She tries to avoid eating junk food to stay healthy.

Use 'snack' to describe a small amount of food eaten between meals. It can be healthy or unhealthy, so it doesn't carry a positive or negative connotation automatically.

• I always carry a healthy snack in my bag.
• He grabbed a quick snack before the meeting.

Use 'empty calories' when talking about food that provides energy through calories but little to no nutritional value. Often used in health discussions to identify unhealthy eating habits.

• Sugary drinks are full of empty calories.
• Eating too much fast food can fill you with empty calories.