vacuum
/ˈvæk.juːm/
NOUN
1. A space containing no matter
A region of space that contains no matter or is nearly empty of particles.
1.1. Empty space or absence of matter
A physical space or region that contains no matter, air, or other substances, or has an extremely low density of matter.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- fullness
- abundance
- completeness
- repleteness
Examples
- In the absence of air, a vacuum is created inside the sealed container.
- The scientist studied the properties of a vacuum in the laboratory.
- The space agency explores the mysteries of outer space, where a vacuum exists.
Related Words
- space
- free space
- gap
- hole
- absence
- openness
- bareness
- barrenness
1.2. Reduced pressure in an enclosed space
A condition in which the pressure inside a vessel or enclosed space is reduced below atmospheric pressure by removing air, gas, or vapor.
Synonyms
- rarefaction
- depletion
- exhaustion
Related Words
- pressure
- condenser
- air removal
- evacuation
NOUN
2. A vacuum-cleaning device
A vacuum cleaner, an electrical appliance or device used to remove dust, dirt, and debris by suction.
2.1. Cleaning with a vacuum cleaner
A machine or appliance that uses suction to collect dust, dirt, and other debris from floors, carpets, furniture, and surfaces.
Synonyms
- vacuum cleaner
Examples
- The vacuum cleaner efficiently removed dust and debris from the carpet.
- Please use the handheld vacuum to clean up small spills quickly.
Related Words
- brush
- broom
- sweeper
- mop
- sponge
- swab
VERB
3. To clean using suction
To clean something by using a vacuum cleaner or to operate a vacuum-cleaning device.
3.1. Cleaning surfaces with a vacuum cleaner
Removing dust, dirt, and debris from floors, carpets, furniture, or other surfaces by using a vacuum cleaner.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- The vacuum cleaner efficiently removed dust and debris from the carpet.
- Please use the handheld vacuum to clean up small spills quickly.
Related Words
- pick up
- rinse
- sponge
- swab
- shampoo
- launder
- dry-clean
- decontaminate
- deterge
- freshen
- sweeten
- comb
VERB
4. Optimizing a database
To optimize a database or database table by physically removing deleted tuples and reclaiming storage space.
4.1. Database maintenance and space reclamation
Removing obsolete or deleted records from a database table to reclaim storage space and improve database efficiency.
Synonyms
- purge
Related Words
- database optimization
- table maintenance
- data cleanup
- space reclamation