Hollowing

Hollowing refers to the process of making something concave or empty inside, often by removing material. It can also describe the act of becoming less substantial or meaningful, figuratively depicting a loss of depth or content. The term implies a reduction in fullness, whether physical or abstract. It can be applied to physical objects like fruits and objects like wooden statues, or concepts such as ideas or memories. The process creates an empty space or diminished presence.

Hollowing meaning with examples

• The sculptor spent days hollowing out the marble statue, carefully chiseling away the interior to create a bowl-like structure. The process was slow and demanding, requiring precision and patience to avoid cracking the stone. The final hollowed form was both beautiful and functional.
• As the old tree stood, it was heavily weathered. Over many years, the tree began to show signs of damage, and its trunk began to decay, with insects and weathering hollowing it from the inside, eventually threatening to fell the tree.
• The relentless pressure of the job had begun to hollow out his spirit; his once vibrant enthusiasm was replaced by a sense of emptiness and detachment. He felt as though his passion and purpose were being slowly and steadily chipped away.
• The economic downturn continued, slowly hollowing out the community as businesses closed and people lost their jobs. The vibrant streets became quiet, with boarded-up storefronts, symbolizing a loss of life and opportunity.