Hollow out
verb
To remove the inside part of something and make it empty.
I need to hollow out this pumpkin to prepare it for carving.
Often appears as...
- hollow out pumpkin
- hollow out tree
verb
Gradually destroy or weaken the internal framework, effectiveness or substance of.
The constant stress was quietly hollowing out their marriage.
Often appears as...
- hollow out relationship
- hollow out economy
Usage tips
Disapproving
verb
To remove or reduce the major parts of something, leaving only its shell.
The company has been hollowed out by spending cuts.
Often appears as...
- hollow out company
- hollow out organization
Usage tips
Disapproving
verb
To remove the inside part of something and make it empty.
I need to hollow out this pumpkin to prepare it for carving.
Often appears as...
- hollow out pumpkin
- hollow out tree
verb
Gradually destroy or weaken the internal framework, effectiveness or substance of.
The constant stress was quietly hollowing out their marriage.
Often appears as...
- hollow out relationship
- hollow out economy
Usage tips
Disapproving
verb
To remove or reduce the major parts of something, leaving only its shell.
The company has been hollowed out by spending cuts.
Often appears as...
- hollow out company
- hollow out organization
Usage tips
Disapproving
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/2Crafts and Creativity
Common in crafting or cooking contexts, where a shape or container is needed.
At the art class, we hollowed out clay pots by hand.
Pro Tip 2/2Action Intensity
'Hollow out' suggests thoroughness, removing all material inside.
For the centerpiece, you must hollow out the apple completely.
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