Hollowness

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

  1. The quality of being empty inside or lacking substance, sincerity, and genuine meaning | the state of having a vacant or sunken appearance
  2. The quality or condition of being empty within | lacking genuine substance or sincerity | possessing a sunken or concave appearance
  3. A state characterized by internal emptiness | absence of real meaning or authenticity | or physical depression or cavity in a surface

Etymology: The term "hollowness" is derived from the Old English word "hol," meaning "hollow," combined with the suffix "-ness," which is used to form nouns indicating a state or condition. This construction creates a term that conveys the quality of being hollow, or lacking substance and depth. The formation of such nouns is quite common in English, allowing for the expression of abstract qualities in a tangible way. First recorded usage of "hollowness" can be traced back to the 14th century, where it appeared in various literary contexts, often used metaphorically to describe not just physical emptiness but also emotional or moral vacuity. The evolution of this term reflects the broader human concerns with authenticity and the substance of one's character or actions. In literature, hollowness often serves as a critique, emphasizing a disparity between appearance and reality, suggesting that something may look full or substantial while being quite the opposite. Over time, the meaning of this word has broadened to encompass not just physical emptiness but also a sense of insincerity or superficiality in various aspects of life, including relationships and societal values. The shift from a literal to a metaphorical interpretation illustrates how language evolves to capture complex human experiences and social critiques. As such, "hollowness" has become a versatile term, applicable in both concrete and abstract discussions, resonating with themes of emptiness that transcend mere physicality.

Synonyms: emptiness, void, vacancy, nullity, devoidness

Antonyms: fullness, solidness, density, completeness, richness