hollow
The tree trunk was hollow and could hide small animals.
The inside of the tree trunk was empty, providing space for small animals to hide.
Having an empty space inside; not solid
The old house had hollow walls where rodents nested.
The walls of the old house were empty inside, serving as a home for rodents.
Often describes objects with a cavity or lack of substance.
Without real value, meaning, or sincerity
His apology felt hollow because he didn’t mean a word of it.
His apology lacked sincerity because he didn’t genuinely feel remorse.
Used to describe emotions, gestures, or actions that lack depth or authenticity.
A hole or empty space within something solid
The engineer reinforced the hollow in the beam to prevent collapse.
The engineer strengthened the empty space inside the beam to avoid structural failure.
In engineering, refers to a cavity within a material or structure.
To make a hole or empty space inside something
The carpenter hollowed out the log to make a canoe.
The carpenter removed material from the inside of the log to shape it into a canoe.
Often used in crafting or construction to create a cavity.
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Pro Tip
Distinguish literal vs. figurative meanings
Use 'hollow' literally for physical emptiness (e.g., 'a hollow pipe') and figuratively for lack of sincerity (e.g., 'a hollow promise').
Gold Rule
Avoid ambiguity in writing
Clarify whether 'hollow' refers to physical space or emotional emptiness to prevent misinterpretation.
Word Origin
From Old English 'holh' (cave, hollow), related to Middle Low German 'hol' and Old Norse 'holr' (hollow). The figurative sense of 'lacking substance' emerged in the 17th century.
Usage Notes
As an adjective, 'hollow' describes physical emptiness or emotional insincerity. As a verb, it means to create a cavity. Avoid confusing the noun 'hollow' (a hole) with the adjective form.