Meaning & Definition of word "Empty"

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    Empty

    /ˈɛmpti/

    verb:

    • 1. To remove the contents of something; to make something void of its contents.
      • Example: Please empty your pockets before entering the security area.
    • 2. To cause a place or container to become devoid of contents.
      • Example: He decided to empty the drawer to find old letters.

    adjective:

    • 1. Containing nothing; not filled or occupied.
      • Example: The room was empty after everyone had left.
    • 2. Devoid of content or substance.
      • Example: She looked at the empty bottle and realized she needed to buy more water.
    • 3. Without meaning or significance.
      • Example: His promises felt empty and untrustworthy.

    Etymology

    Old English 'æmtig', from the root 'ame' meaning 'to remove'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    empty-handed:

    In a state of having nothing to show for an effort.

    empty nest:

    A household where children have grown up and left home.

    empty promises:

    Assurances that are not fulfilled.

    Related Words

    void:

    A completely empty space.

    hollow:

    Having a space inside; not solid.

    devoid:

    Entirely lacking in quality or substance.

    Slang Meanings of empty

    Meaning: Empty as in lacking substance or seriousness.

    Example Sentence: His argument was just empty rhetoric.

    Meaning: Feeling emotionally drained or vacant.

    Example Sentence: After the breakup, I just felt so empty inside.