Hole Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hole
[həʊl ]
Definitions
in golf
A small, round opening in the ground on a golf course, typically 4.25 inches (10.8 cm) in diameter, into which the ball must be hit.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hole |
A generic term for an empty space in a solid object. It can be small or large and used in a variety of contexts, from everyday situations to technical descriptions.
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| opening |
Refers to an accessible entrance or gap. It often suggests a passage through which something can pass or enter.
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| pit |
Describes a deep hole or cavity in the ground. It is often used in contexts involving mining, construction, or natural formations.
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| hollow |
Used to describe an empty space within an object, often implying a natural or deliberate shape. Typically used for internal cavities.
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Examples of usage
- The golfer managed to sink the ball into the hole with a perfect putt.
- She celebrated her hole-in-one by buying drinks for everyone at the club.
- The ball rolled just past the edge of the hole, causing frustration for the player.
in the ground
A hollow place in a solid surface.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hole |
A general term used to describe any physical gap or opening in a surface or object.
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| pit |
Typically refers to a large, deep hole or excavation in the ground, sometimes a natural depression, and can also refer to the stone inside fruits.
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| cavity |
Often used in medical or dental contexts to describe a decayed area in a tooth, but can also refer to any empty space within a solid object.
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| hollow |
Describes something that has an empty space inside, often referring to objects like trees, tubes, or bones.
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Examples of usage
- The dog dug a hole in the backyard to bury its bone.
- He fell into a deep hole while walking in the woods.
- The workers filled the hole in the road with gravel and asphalt.
digging
To make a hole or opening in something by digging.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hole |
A general term for an opening or cavity in a surface, often used in everyday language.
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| dig |
To create a hole in the ground by removing earth or sand, often used informally or as a command.
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| excavate |
A more formal term used in archaeology or construction to describe the process of carefully digging to find ancient relics or to prepare a construction site.
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| burrow |
Usually refers to a tunnel or hole made by an animal, like a rabbit or a mole, for living or hiding.
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Examples of usage
- She used a shovel to hole the ground for planting flowers.
- The miners holed the wall to create a passage through the mountain.
- He carefully holed the ice to go fishing.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In physics, a black hole is a region in space where the gravitational pull is so strong that not even light can escape.
- A 'wormhole' is theorized as a tunnel-like structure connecting two different points in space-time.
- In geology, sinkholes are natural depressions formed when underground water erodes rock, resulting in surface collapse.
Art
- Holes can be an artistic devices, like in 'hole punch art', where artists create pieces using the negative space left by punches.
- In sculpture, many artists use holes in materials like stone to create light effects and visual interest.
- Some famous artworks explore themes of emptiness and absence, effectively using holes to convey meaning.
Psychology
- The concept of 'hole' can represent emptiness or loss in therapeutic discussions, symbolizing what one feels is missing.
- In developmental psychology, children might explore holes as they learn about the world, seeing them as spaces to put things.
- The 'Swiss cheese model' in safety and risk management explains holes in processes that can lead to failures.
Literature
- In literature, a hole often symbolizes voids in characters' lives or the search for wholeness.
- Classic stories like Alice's Adventures in Wonderland start with a character falling down a rabbit hole, suggesting a journey into the unknown.
- Many poets use metaphors of holes to express feelings of loss, confusion, or longing.
Origin of 'hole'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'hole' comes from the Old English 'hol' meaning 'a hollow place'.
- In other languages, like German, 'Loch' also means 'hole', showing similar roots in many cultures.
- Historically, holes have been used for various purposes, from digging for water to creating shelter.
The word 'hole' has Old English origins, coming from the Old English word 'hol'. It has been used in the English language for centuries to refer to an opening or hollow space. The concept of a hole has been significant in various fields, from golf to construction, symbolizing emptiness or a void in a surface. The versatility of the word 'hole' has made it a common and essential part of everyday language.