hollow out
The phrase "hollow out" can describe both physical and metaphorical actions, commonly used in various contexts including construction and social dynamics.
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Definition
B2General
(physical, transitive)To remove the inside part of an object, leaving it empty.
Example
- They hollowed out the pumpkin to make a jack-o'-lantern.
B2General
(physical, intransitive)To become empty inside.
Example
- Over the years, the old tree began to hollow out.
C1Social Dynamics
(metaphorical, transitive)To diminish the effectiveness or significance of something by removing its essential elements.
Example
- The new policies have hollowed out the power of the local government.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "hollow out":
hollowed outcave outcarve outchisel outcut outhollow legdig outchop outblow a hole throughcut intoshovel outsuck outround outhole punchcarve upbeat hollowdrain outclean outblock outcut through