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vacuum

noun

/ˈvæk yum/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of vacuum

A space or area devoid of matter, specifically gas, liquid, or solid particles.
"The lack of leadership created a power vacuum within the organization."

Detailed meaning of vacuum

In a vacuum, the pressure is significantly lower than atmospheric pressure, leading to the absence of air or other substances. Vacuum can occur naturally in outer space, where the lack of atmosphere creates a vacuum environment. It can also be artificially created in various scientific, industrial, and household settings using specialized equipment. Vacuum finds applications in fields such as physics, engineering, and technology, as it enables experiments, processes, and functions that require the absence of air or other particles. Additionally, the term "vacuum" is also used metaphorically to describe a state or situation that is devoid of something, such as a vacuum of power or a vacuum of information, indicating a void or lack of presence in a particular context.

Example sentences containing vacuum

1. The vacuum of space is an inhospitable environment for humans.
2. The scientist conducted experiments in a high-pressure vacuum chamber.
3. She sealed the food in a vacuum-sealed bag to preserve its freshness.
4. Astronauts wear specially designed suits to protect themselves in the vacuum of space.
5. The old vacuum tube technology has been replaced by more efficient electronic components.
6. The company invested in a state-of-the-art vacuum deposition system for thin film coating.

History and etymology of vacuum

The noun 'vacuum,' rooted in the Latin word 'vacuus,' can be traced back to ancient Latin. 'Vacuus' translates to 'empty' or 'void.' In the context of physics and space, a vacuum refers to a space or area entirely devoid of matter, specifically gas, liquid, or solid particles. This term gained prominence in the study of natural philosophy and later in modern physics to describe environments where there is an absence of substance. The concept of a vacuum has played a crucial role in the advancement of scientific understanding, and its etymology reflects the idea of emptiness and absence that characterizes this unique physical state.

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Further usage examples of vacuum

1. The vacuum left by his sudden departure was felt by the entire team.
2. I accidentally knocked over the vase, and there was a sudden vacuum of silence in the room.
3. In the vacuum of space, there's no air to breathe.
4. The vacuum sucked up all the dust and debris.
5. Scientists study the properties of a vacuum.
6. The vacuum sealed the food to keep it fresh.
7. The sound couldn't travel through the vacuum.
8. She cleaned the carpet with a powerful vacuum.
9. The vacuum of silence in the room was eerie.
10. The vacuum of leadership caused chaos in the team.
11. The vacuum chamber simulates space conditions.
12. The astronaut's suit protected him from the vacuum.
13. The vacuum in the bottle kept the liquid hot.
14. He used a vacuum to clean the car interior.
15. The vacuum of time separates us from the past.
16. She experienced a vacuum of emotion after the loss.
17. The vacuum created by his absence was palpable.
18. The vacuum cleaner hummed as it did its job.
19. The vacuum of knowledge in that field was vast.
20. The vacuum of opportunity led her to new ventures.
21. In the vacuum of doubt, he found clarity.
22. The vacuum left by her departure was hard to fill.