vac·u·um
ˈva-(ˌ)kyüm
-kyəm
also
-kyü-əm
plural vacuums or vacua
ˈva-kyə-wə
1
: emptiness of space
2
a
: a space absolutely devoid of matter
b
: a space partially exhausted (as to the highest degree possible) by artificial means (such as an air pump)
c
: a degree of rarefaction below atmospheric pressure
3
a
: a state or condition resembling a vacuum : void
… the power vacuum in Indochina after the departure of the French …—Norman Cousins
b
: a state of isolation from outside influences
… people who live in a vacuum … so that the world outside them is of no moment …—W. Somerset Maugham
4
: a device creating or utilizing a partial vacuum
especially
: vacuum cleaner
vacuumed; vacuuming; vacuums
1
: to use a vacuum device (such as a vacuum cleaner) on
vacuum the living room
2
: to draw or take in by or as if by suction
: to operate a vacuum device
1
: of, containing, producing, or utilizing a partial vacuum
separated by means of vacuum distillation
2
: of or relating to a vacuum device or system
Cite this Entry
“Vacuum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vacuum. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
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