hollow 1 of 3

Definition of hollownext

hollow

2 of 3

noun

hollow

3 of 3

verb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word hollow distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of hollow are empty, idle, nugatory, otiose, and vain. While all these words mean "being without worth or significance," empty and hollow suggest a deceiving lack of real substance or soundness or genuineness.

an empty attempt at reconciliation
a hollow victory

When is it sensible to use idle instead of hollow?

Although the words idle and hollow have much in common, idle suggests being incapable of worthwhile use or effect.

idle speculations

When could nugatory be used to replace hollow?

The synonyms nugatory and hollow are sometimes interchangeable, but nugatory suggests triviality or insignificance.

a monarch with nugatory powers

When can otiose be used instead of hollow?

In some situations, the words otiose and hollow are roughly equivalent. However, otiose suggests that something serves no purpose and is either an encumbrance or a superfluity.

a film without a single otiose scene

Where would vain be a reasonable alternative to hollow?

While in some cases nearly identical to hollow, vain implies either absolute or relative absence of value.

vain promises

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of hollow
Adjective
Purely agentic teams risk becoming technically perfect but emotionally hollow. Micha Hershman, Forbes.com, 18 June 2026 Iran’s actions don’t justify accepting a hollow promise. Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 18 June 2026
Noun
The backrest and seat are generously padded with dense foam, with no noticeable hollows. Will Greenwald, PC Magazine, 9 June 2026 DeLuca lists the great crested flycatcher, prothonotary warbler, chickadees, nuthatches, Eastern bluebirds, tree swallows, and purple martins as among birds that will nest in a hollow or snag. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 30 May 2026
Verb
For owners, labor has always been a cost center; AI is the first technology that credibly promises to hollow it out entirely. Catherina Gioino, Fortune, 6 Mar. 2026 The path forward for most districts, however, will require solving the same problems that helped hollow these programs out. Gerald Bradshaw, Chicago Tribune, 25 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hollow
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hollow
Adjective
  • Their concave shapes and generous size are perfect vessels for all kinds of fillings, from a rich, hearty meat ragù to lighter combinations like ricotta and seasonal vegetables.
    Carole Kotkin, Miami Herald, 16 June 2026
  • Checking the Seal Jars that have successfully sealed will have a concave lid that won't pop back up when pressed.
    Martha Stewart, Martha Stewart, 12 June 2026
Noun
  • The crash also resulted in a large hole in the side of the vessel.
    Landon Mion, FOXNews.com, 23 June 2026
  • The piece has seven holes for customization, and it’s designed to be worn at the hips or waist.
    Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 22 June 2026
Noun
  • Along with widespread highs in the 90s, the system will bring high humidity to the Mississippi and Ohio valleys, Duffus said, with more than two dozen states affected at its peak.
    Marc Ramirez, USA Today, 29 June 2026
  • When camping in an open environment, select a campsite in a valley, ravine, or low region.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 28 June 2026
Verb
  • To absorb expenses without gouging their customers, leaders must build fiercely lean teams and optimize their talent.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026
  • Michigan's attorney general has opened a price gouging investigation into a BP gas station near Detroit Metro Airport that prosecutors say charged travelers significantly more for gas than nearby stations.
    Paula Wethington, CBS News, 16 June 2026
Adjective
  • Screenwriter Jack Thorne, working from the character created by author Nancy Springer, throws all manner of secrets, sunken treasure and a British colonialism subplot into a convoluted mix.
    ABC News, ABC News, 1 July 2026
  • Prison life hasn't been easy on Otto, who has dungeon hair, sunken eyes and a scraggly beard.
    Bryan Alexander, USA Today, 29 June 2026
Noun
  • However, Norman Powell appears likely to leave in free agency, and paired with the loss of Herro, that puts a serious dent in the team’s non-Antetokounmpo/Bam Adebayo arsenal.
    Juan Carlos Blanco, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026
  • The Padres will get four more games in Los Angeles next week to put a dent in those numbers.
    Fabian Ardaya, New York Times, 29 June 2026
Verb
  • One notable upgrade is the Sheet Mask Boost Mode, specifically designed to help hydrating essences penetrate deeper into the skin.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 23 June 2026
  • Okay, ability to go in and penetrate a cybersecurity system.
    Dana Taylor, USA Today, 23 June 2026
Noun
  • The extra saliva helps rinse away food particles and bacteria that can contribute to cavities, making gum a useful addition to your travel routine.
    Brittany Anas, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026
  • Rather than a small drawer or tray, the divided top of West Elm’s storage coffee table rotates to reveal an empty storage cavity to fill with throw blankets, books, or video game controllers.
    Rachel Fletcher, Architectural Digest, 19 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Hollow.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hollow. Accessed 2 Jul. 2026.

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