vacuum

/ˈvækjuəm/ noun, verb

Origin

From Latin vacuus meaning "empty"

Meanings

1. noun: A space entirely empty of matter or air
2. noun: A cleaning device that uses suction to collect dust and dirt
3. verb: To clean with a vacuum cleaner
4. noun: A state or condition of being without something
5. noun: An electric household appliance for cleaning floors

Example Sentences

• Scientists study how particles behave in a vacuum.
• She vacuums her apartment every Sunday morning.
• Nature abhors a vacuum.
• The departure of the CEO created a leadership vacuum.

Word Forms

• verb: vacuum, vacuums, vacuuming, vacuumed
• adjective: vacuous
• noun: vacuity, vacuousness

Synonyms

• emptiness
• void
• nothingness
• hoover (British)
• suction cleaner

Memory Tricks

1. Think "VAC-U-um" = "I vacuum YOU up" (helps remember the spelling)
2. Picture a vacuum cleaner sucking up the letters "U" and "M" to remember the ending
3. Connect to the phrase "vacuum of space" - completely empty space

Usage Notes

• Often used in scientific contexts to describe absence of matter
• In everyday usage, commonly refers to the cleaning appliance
• Can be both noun and verb
• Some regions (like UK) use "hoover" as a synonym