Hollowed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hollowed
[ˈhɑloʊd ]
Definitions
physical description
Hollowed describes something that is empty inside or has had its interior removed. It often refers to objects that are concave or have a cavity, which creates a sense of emptiness. This term can be used to describe various things like trees, logs, or certain types of bowls and vessels. The concept often conveys a sense of loss or absence, especially when referring to something that used to be whole but is now partly or completely emptied.
Synonyms
cavity, concave, depressed, emptied.
Examples of usage
- The hollowed tree was a perfect home for the birds.
- He carved a hollowed pumpkin for Halloween.
- The hollowed stone was used as a basin in ancient times.
action of removing
To hollowed something means to remove the interior material, leaving the outer shell or structure intact. This can apply to many contexts, such as carving fruits or vegetables for decoration or preparing wood for crafts. The act of hollowing creates space within an object, which may serve various purposes from aesthetic to functional. It implies a process of alteration where the initial material is transformed into something new.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- They hollowed out the log to make a canoe.
- She hollowed the cheese to create a serving bowl.
- The artist hollowed the stone to reveal the intricate design inside.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Art & Architecture
- Many sculptures are hollowed out to reduce weight while maintaining form, creating an interesting play of light and shadow.
- In architecture, hollowed walls can provide better insulation while using less material, showing innovation in design.
Psychology
- Feeling hollow can describe a sense of emptiness often linked to emotional distress or loneliness.
- The concept of ‘hollow’ can also relate to cognitive experiences, where individuals perceive a lack of meaning in life.
Nature
- Certain trees become hollow over time due to decay, creating habitats for animals like owls and bats.
- Hollowed rocks, formed by erosion, create unique landscapes and often house small ecosystems.
Pop Culture
- In literature, a 'hollow' character often signifies a person with no depth or emotion, a common trope in stories exploring existential themes.
- The song 'Hollow' by various artists explores feelings of loss and emptiness in relationships, tapping into the emotional resonance of being hollow.
Origin of 'hollowed'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old English 'holh', which means 'a hole or cavity'.
- It has roots in the Proto-Germanic language, suggesting a common theme of emptiness or space across related languages.
The word hollowed comes from the Old English term 'holh,' meaning 'a hole' or 'hollow.' Its roots can be traced back to Proto-Germanic *hulō, which also relates to concepts of emptiness or a cavity. Over the centuries, it has evolved in the English language to refer not only to physical hollowness but also to metaphorical uses, denoting a sense of loss or absence. For example, when describing a 'hollowed heart,' one might imply emotional emptiness or sorrow. The verb form of the word has maintained this connection to the act of creating hollowness in various materials throughout history.