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empty

containing nothing
Adjective
pl: emptiespast: emptiedpp: emptieding: emptyingcomp: more emptysup: most empty

When used as an adjective, the word oscillates between a literal physical state and a psychological or moral void. In its concrete sense, it describes a spatial vacuum where a vessel lacks its intended contents, creating a sense of absence or readiness to be filled. In a figurative sense, it characterizes a lack of substance or integrity. This is frequently applied to communication, such as words or gestures, that possess the form of meaning but lack the underlying truth or intent, rendering the expression hollow or fraudulent.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Leo is in his room gaming while David is at the office.
David Smith

Leo, did you empty the dishwasher or are you just lagging?

David Smith
Leo Smith
Leo Smith

chill. i'm literally in a match, don't throw.

💡
David attempts to use gaming terminology ('lagging') to sound 'cool' and relatable to his son while asking him to do chores. Leo responds with typical gamer slang: 'chill' (relax) and 'don't throw' (meaning don't cause me to lose the game or ruin my progress).

Meanings

Adjectivecontaining nothing

Containing nothing; not filled.

"The box was completely empty."

Collocations & Compounds

empty vessel

a person who talks a lot but lacks knowledge

He is an empty vessel who makes the most noise.

empty threats

warnings that the speaker has no intention of acting upon

The manager made empty threats about firing the staff.

empty calories

calories from foods with little nutritional value

Soda provides nothing but empty calories.

completely empty

totally void of contents

The bottle was completely empty after the party.

empty space

an area containing nothing

There is a large empty space in the middle of the room.

Phrasal Verbs

empty out

to remove everything from a container

She emptied out her purse to find the keys.

Related Words

Last Updated: June 8, 2026Report an Error