Vacuous Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈvækyəs/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A lack of intellectual, cultural, or moral substance; emptiness or insignificance.

Examples

• The politician’s speech was criticized for being too vacuous and lacking substance.
• The movie’s plot was too thin and vacuous, leaving the audience unfulfilled.

Synonyms

• Shallow
• Insipid
• Vacant

Antonyms

• Substantial
• Meaningful
• Informative

Additional Information

Vacuousness can apply to various aspects of life, such as relationships, conversations, or even entire philosophies. It is often used to describe something that lacks depth or significance, leaving little to no impact or impression. In some cases, vacuousness can be intentionally used for humorous or satirical purposes.

In language, vacuousness can manifest as simplistic or clichéd expressions, which often lack originality or creativity. On the other hand, art and literature can sometimes make use of vacuousness as a deliberate stylistic choice to create a specific atmosphere or mood.

Etymology

The word “vacuous” originates from the Latin “vacuus,” meaning “empty” or “vacant.” It has been in use since the 15th century and has evolved to encompass a range of meanings related to emptiness or insignificance.

Usage Notes

Vacuous is often used to describe situations or concepts that lack substance or depth. When describing someone’s words or actions, it implies a lack of thought or consideration.

In some contexts, vacuous can be used in a more flippant or humorous way to describe something that is simply trivial or inconsequential.

Cultural References

Vacuous has appeared in various forms of media, such as literature, film, and music. For example, the term has been used by authors like Woody Allen and Neil Gaiman to describe the emptiness or superficiality of certain characters or ideas.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “Vacuous smile” – a fake or insincere smile
• “Vacuous chatter” – pointless or empty conversation

Related Words or Phrases

• Shallow
• Superficial
• Insipid
• Vacant

Collocations

• Vacuous words
• Vacuous ideas
• Vacuous conversation

Frequency of Use

Vacuous is a somewhat rare word, but it has been gaining popularity in recent years. It is often used in formal or professional contexts to describe something that lacks substance or depth.

Common Misspellings

• Vacuus
• Vaucous
• Vacious