Holey Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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holey

[ˈhoʊli ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

description of fabric or material

Having small holes or spaces, especially made by or as if by wear.

Synonyms

gap-ridden, perforated, porous.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
holey	This word is often used to describe something that has holes, especially in fabric or materials like clothing. It can sometimes have a negative connotation, implying wear and tear. She threw away her holey socks. The old shirt became holey after years of use.
perforated	This word is usually used to describe materials that have a series of holes, often for the purpose of tearing or separating them easily. Please tear along the perforated line. This notebook has perforated pages for easy removal.
porous	This term is used to describe materials that have tiny holes, allowing liquids or gases to pass through. It can be used in both literal and metaphorical contexts. The soil is porous, which helps with drainage. The security at the event was porous, and people could sneak in easily.
gap-ridden	This term highlights the presence of numerous gaps or spaces within something, and it often carries a negative implication of being incomplete or flawed. The fence was gap-ridden and couldn't keep animals out. The argument was gap-ridden and unconvincing.

Examples of usage

The holey socks were no longer suitable for wearing.
She loved the holey texture of the vintage lace fabric.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Art

Several artists have used the concept of holes in their work, creating visual illusions with empty spaces to provoke thought.
Sculptures and installations often play with the theme of 'holey' to highlight absence as a significant form of presence.
In comic art, holey imagery can add a humorous or dramatic effect, enhancing the story being told.

Science

In biology, certain organisms have been studied for their 'holey' structures, like DNA which has holes at atomic levels allowing for various functions.
Porous materials in science are described as 'holey' as they contain many openings that can absorb liquids or gases.
Geologists examine holey rocks, known as vesicular rocks, which have gas bubbles trapped within them when they cool.

Pop Culture

In cartoons, characters often find themselves in funny situations related to holey clothing, leading to humorous storylines.
The term 'holey' can also be seen in fashion where distressed clothing is trendy, featuring intentional rips and holes.
An infamous comedic catchphrase comes from characters who exclaim about holey designs, creating a humorous spin on fashion faux pas.

Psychology

The phrase 'holey thoughts' can refer to gaps in a person's memory or cognitive processes where information seems missing.
In therapy, discussing feelings of emptiness or 'holes' in life can lead to important breakthroughs and self-awareness.
The human brain often fills in gaps (like holes) in thoughts or memories, which is a fascinating aspect of how we recall information.

Origin of 'holey'

Main points about word origin

The word 'holey' comes from the Old English word 'hol,' meaning 'a hollow place.'
It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe objects with holes.
Despite sounding similar, 'holey' is different from 'holy,' which relates to something sacred.

The word 'holey' is derived from the noun 'hole,' which has Old English origins. The suffix '-y' is commonly used to create adjectives in English, indicating that something is characterized by or full of the root word. In this case, 'holey' describes something that is full of holes or spaces. The term has been used to describe fabrics, materials, and objects that have been worn or damaged, resulting in the presence of small openings.