"vacuum" Definition

Definitions for the word "vacuum" from multiple English dictionaries.

1. n.
A space entirely devoid of matter (called also, by way of distinction, absolute vacuum); hence, in a more general sense, a space, as the interior of a closed vessel, which has been exhausted to a high or the highest degree by an air pump or other artificial means; as, water boils at a reduced temperature in a vacuum.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. n.
The condition of rarefaction, or reduction of pressure below that of the atmosphere, in a vessel, as the condenser of a steam engine, which is nearly exhausted of air or steam, etc.; as, a vacuum of 26 inches of mercury, or 13 pounds per square inch.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. n.
(pl. -s or -cua) 1 space entirely devoid of matter. 2 space or vessel from which all or some of the air has been pumped out. 3 absence of the normal or previous content, activities, etc. 4 (pl. -s) colloq. Vacuum cleaner. v. Colloq. Clean with a vacuum cleaner. [latin vacuus empty]
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884

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Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "vacuum" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "vacuum" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history. The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.

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