Word: Hollowness
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: Hollowness refers to the quality of having an empty space inside something or lacking substance. It can also describe a feeling of emptiness or insincerity, such as when someone is not being truthful or genuine.
Usage Instructions:
Examples:
Physical Sense: "The hollowness of the log made it a perfect home for small animals."
Abstract Sense: "Despite her cheerful smile, there was a hollowness in her voice that suggested she was unhappy."
Advanced Usage:
In literature or philosophy, hollowness can describe a character's emotional state or moral integrity. For instance, a character may appear successful but feel a sense of hollowness due to a lack of true happiness or fulfillment.
Word Variants:
Hollow (adjective): Describing something that has a space inside (e.g., "The hollow tree was home to many birds.")
Hollowly (adverb): In a way that lacks emotion or sincerity (e.g., "He spoke hollowly about his achievements.")
Hollowing (verb): The act of making something hollow (e.g., "They were hollowing out the pumpkin for Halloween.")
Different Meanings:
Literal Meaning: The physical property of being empty inside (like a hollow tube).
Figurative Meaning: A feeling of emptiness or insincerity in emotions or statements.
Synonyms:
Emptiness
Insincerity
Deceitfulness
Vacuity
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
"Hollow victory": A win that feels empty because it was achieved without merit or at a great cost.
"Hollow out": To remove the inside of something, making it empty (e.g., "They hollowed out the bread to make a bowl for soup.")
Summary:
Hollowness can describe both physical emptiness and emotional insincerity. It is a versatile word that can be applied in various contexts, whether discussing objects or the authenticity of feelings.