How Do You Spell HOLLOWS OUT?

Pronunciation: [hˈɒlə͡ʊz ˈa͡ʊt] (IPA)

The word "hollows out" is spelled with a combination of sounds that can be tricky for non-native English speakers to master. The "ho-" begins with an open vowel sound, like "ahh," which is followed by a "w" consonant sound. The "-ll-" is pronounced like "l" but with extra length, and the "-ows" is pronounced with the long "o" sound. The final "-t" is pronounced with a brief stop of air. Altogether, the phonetic transcription of "hollows out" is /ˈhɑloʊz aʊt/.

HOLLOWS OUT Meaning and Definition

1. Hollows out, as a phrasal verb, refers to the act of creating an empty space or cavity by removing the inner part or core of an object. It typically involves excavating or carving out the inside of an item, leaving only the external shell or surface intact. This process is often undertaken to create a specific shape or to make an object lighter or more functional.

   Hollowing out can be observed in various contexts. In woodworking, it involves removing the excess material from the inside of a piece, leaving a hollow or concave shape. For example, a woodturner may hollow out the inside of a bowl, creating an empty space within the previously solid block of wood.

   Moreover, hollowing out can refer to the process of removing the internal structure or functions of an organization, institution, or industry. This concept is commonly used in business and economic contexts, describing situations where a company or sector streamlines or reduces its operations, often leading to a decrease in employment or services provided. For instance, the term is often used when businesses move their manufacturing operations to other countries to capitalize on cheaper labor, leaving behind a hollowed-out industrial base in their home country.

   In summary, the phrase "hollows out" denotes the act of carving out an empty space inside an object or removing the internal structure of an organization or industry. It encompasses physical processes, such as carving a hollow shape in wood, as well as metaphorical scenarios, referring to the reduction or removal of essential components within a business or sector.

Common Misspellings for HOLLOWS OUT

• hollowsout
• hollows ou t

Etymology of HOLLOWS OUT

The word "hollows out" does not have a specific etymology on its own, as it is formed by combining two separate words: "hollow" and "out".

The word "hollow" has Old English origins, derived from the Old English word "holh" or "holu", meaning "a hollow place or cavity". This can be traced back to Proto-Germanic origins, where the word was "hul-, hol-" meaning "hollow or empty space".

The word "out" is a preposition or adverb that originated from Old English "ūt" or "ūte". It can be traced back to Proto-Germanic roots as well.

When these two words are combined, "hollows out" means to make something hollow by removing or excavating the inner part. The etymology of each individual word contributes to the overall meaning of the phrase.