Without/wɪˈðaʊt/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Impact Indicates a lack or need which can express urgency or sadness. He looked at the empty playground without joy. Pro Tip 2/3Expressing Necessity Shows that something is essential by mentioning its absence. A detective works best without distractions. Pro Tip 3/3Highlighting Lack Used to emphasize what is missing to demonstrate contrast. The photo looked dull without any colors.