vacant
UK: ˈveɪkənt | US: ˈveɪkənt
adj. empty or unoccupied (of a place, position, or space)
adj. showing no intelligence or expression (of a look, stare, etc.)
adj. (law) not currently in use or claimed
vacant = vac<empty> + ant<adjective suffix>
- vac (from Latin vacare "to be empty") → Retains the core meaning of "empty" in modern usage.
- ant (Latin-derived suffix forming adjectives) → Indicates a state or quality (e.g., "dominant," "radiant").
Etymology Origin:
The word "vacant" traces back to Latin vacans, the present participle of vacare ("to be empty"). The root vac- appears in related English words like "vacuum" (a space devoid of matter) and "evacuate" (to empty a place). Over time, "vacant" expanded from describing physical emptiness (e.g., a vacant room) to metaphorical absences (e.g., a vacant expression). The suffix -ant solidifies its role as an adjective, marking a persistent state of void or inactivity.
The apartment has been vacant for months.
She gave him a vacant stare, not comprehending the question.
The position fell vacant after the manager resigned.
His mind felt vacant after hours of tedious work.
The courtroom seat remained vacant during the trial.