hollow out
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To make something hollow.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
After we have crossed the Glenderamackin stream, which drains the northern slopes of Saddleback, and the latter has united with the St. John's Beck to form the Greta, however, we see ahead the miniature canyon the Greta has hollowed out for itself, and into the depth of which the train now descends.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To become hollow.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
Meaning · English
To reduce the power or influence of something.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “hollow out” mean?
To make something hollow.
Is “hollow out” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.