Definition of Hollow
Quick Meaning of Hollow
Empty inside with no solid material, or creating a deep sound that echoes.
Detailed Definition of Hollow
Having an empty space inside; not solid throughout.
How to Pronounce Hollow
Stress pattern: Oo (2-syllable word).
Tip: First syllable gets the stress: HAL-oh. The vowel in the second syllable rhymes with 'go'.
Watch out: Sometimes pronounced /hɑːˈloʊ/ with stress on second syllable; correct stress is on the first syllable.
How to Use Hollow in a Sentence
Each example shows “hollow” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The bamboo stem is hollow inside so water can flow through it.”
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“He knocked on the hollow metal pipe and heard a loud echo.”
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“Her laugh sounded hollow and insincere to everyone in the room.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Hollow
Common Synonyms for Hollow
Smart Synonyms for Hollow — When to Use Each
- empty
- when describing physical space inside an object
- insincere
- when describing feelings or words that lack authenticity
Antonyms of Hollow
Common Collocations with Hollow
These phrases pair with “hollow” in everyday English:
- hollow tree
- hollow sound
- hollow victory
- ring hollow
- feel hollow
Common Mistakes When Using Hollow
Even fluent speakers slip up with “hollow”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The tree has a hollow.
- ✓ Correct: The tree is hollow or The tree has a hole in it.
- Why: 'Hollow' is an adjective or verb; use 'is hollow' (adjective) or 'has a hole' (noun), not 'has a hollow'.
- ✗ Wrong: The tree is hollow very much.
- ✓ Correct: The tree is very hollow.
- Why: Adverbs modifying adjectives come before, not after; 'very hollow' is correct word order.
Other Forms of Hollow
Frequently Asked Questions About Hollow
What is the meaning of "Hollow"?
Empty inside with no solid material, or creating a deep sound that echoes.
How do you pronounce "Hollow"?
The IPA is /ˈhɑːloʊ/. First syllable gets the stress: HAL-oh. The vowel in the second syllable rhymes with 'go'.
What part of speech is "Hollow"?
"Hollow" is an adjective at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Hollow"?
Common synonyms include empty, vacant, void.
How do you use "Hollow" in a sentence?
For example: "The bamboo stem is hollow inside so water can flow through it."