Hollow out Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To remove all the material from inside something, making it empty or hollow. It can refer to physically scooping out something's inside or to making something less meaningful or effective.
Usage & Nuances
Often used for pumpkins, trees, or objects being carved or prepared. Can be literal (physically removing the inside) or metaphorical (reducing substance or value). Usually takes a direct object ('hollow out a log'). Not typically used for people.
Example Sentences
We need to hollow out this pumpkin to make a lantern.
basic
They hollowed out a tree trunk to build a canoe.
basic
First, hollow out the bread to make room for the soup.
basic
The company’s changes slowly hollowed out its core values.
natural
After years of erosion, the cave was completely hollowed out by water.
natural
Politicians sometimes hollow out promises once they’re in office.
natural