English · Word Candidate

vacuum

/ˈvæ.kjuːm/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: vacuums · vacua · vacuuming · vacuumed

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A region of space that contains no matter.

Noun

Examples

The Wards are open-topped, with skyscrapers rising from the superstructure. Towers are sealed against vacuum, as the breathable atmosphere envelope is only maintained to a height of about seven meters. The atmosphere is contained by the centrifugal force of rotation and a "membrane" of dense, colorl

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

The condition of rarefaction, or reduction of pressure below that of the atmosphere, in a vessel, such as the condenser of a steam engine, which is nearly exhausted of air or steam, etc.

Noun

Examples

a vacuum of 26 inches of mercury, or 13 pounds per square inch

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To clean (something) with a vacuum cleaner.

Verb

Examples

“Who in the world cleans an attic? That's like vacuuming a shed.”

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

To use a vacuum cleaner.

Verb

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “vacuum” mean?

A region of space that contains no matter.

Is “vacuum” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.