Hollowness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hollowness
[ˈhɒl.əʊ.nəs ]
Definitions
feeling
The state or quality of being hollow or empty inside, often used to describe a sense of emptiness or lack of fulfillment in one's emotions or life.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hollowness |
Used to describe a physical object or structure that is empty inside, or to metaphorically express a lack of substance or depth.
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| emptiness |
Often used to describe a space that is completely devoid of objects or people, or to express a feeling of loneliness or lack of purpose.
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| void |
Typically used to describe a large gap or space that is completely empty, or metaphorically to express a profound emptiness or absence, often with a dramatic or negative connotation.
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| vacancy |
Commonly used to describe an unoccupied position, role, or space, particularly in employment or rental contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The hollowness in his chest grew as he realized he had lost the one he loved.
- She tried to fill the hollowness in her heart with material possessions, but nothing seemed to work.
- The hollowness of her laughter betrayed the sadness she was trying to hide.
sound
The characteristic of a sound that lacks depth or fullness, often described as a hollow or echoing quality.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hollowness |
Use this word when describing a state of emptiness or lack of substance, both physically and metaphorically.
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| echoing |
This word is suitable when describing sounds that repeat or reverberate, often in a large empty space.
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| resonance |
This word is best used when referring to a quality of sound being deep, full, and reverberating, or when describing something that has a lasting impact or significance.
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| hollow |
Use 'hollow' to describe something that is empty inside or to convey a feeling of emptiness or insincerity.
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Examples of usage
- The hollowness of the drum's beat echoed through the empty room.
- The hollowness of his voice in the cave made it seem like a ghostly whisper.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Philosophy
- Existential thinkers often discuss hollowness in relation to feelings of meaninglessness in life.
- In literature, characters may feel hollow when they lack purpose or connection to others.
Psychology
- Some people describe feelings of hollowness as a sign of emotional distress or depression.
- This sensation can occur when individuals struggle with identity or self-worth.
Literature
- In 'The Great Gatsby', hollowness represents the emptiness of wealth and social status.
- Poets may use hollowness as a metaphor for unfulfilled desires and loneliness.
Art
- Sculptors often create hollow pieces to explore themes of emptiness and absence.
- Hollow forms in modern art can symbolize the absence of spirit or life.
Science
- In biology, certain plant structures are described as hollow to support weight without excessive tissue.
- Hollow objects like bones are strong yet lightweight, maximizing efficiency in nature.
Origin of 'hollowness'
The word 'hollowness' originated from the Old English word 'holh', meaning 'hole'. Over time, it evolved to include the concept of emptiness or lack of substance. The use of 'hollowness' to describe emotional emptiness became popular in the 19th century, reflecting the growing awareness of mental health and emotional well-being.
See also: hollow.