Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Empty, not occupied: Describing a space, position, or container that is not currently filled or in use.
   • Lacking thought, intelligence, or expression: Describing a mind, look, or expression that shows a lack of understanding, interest, or awareness.

Examples of Usage

• Describing an empty space or position:

  • The apartment has been vacant for three months.
  • There is a vacant seat at the back of the theater.
  • The company is trying to fill a vacant managerial position.

• Describing a lack of thought or expression:

  • He had a vacant stare, as if he wasn't listening.
  • Her mind felt vacant after the long, boring lecture.

Advanced Usage

• "Vacant lot": An area of land in a city that is not built on. (Note: This is a compound noun listed here as an example of advanced usage where "vacant" modifies "lot").

  • Children were playing baseball on the vacant lot.

• "To fall vacant": To become empty or available, often used for positions or properties.

  • The position will fall vacant when the current director retires.

Variants and Related Words

• Vacancy (noun):

  • An empty space or an available position.

    • The hotel has no vacancies tonight.
    • We are advertising a vacancy for a receptionist.

• Vacantly (adverb):

  • In a way that shows a lack of thought or expression.

    • She smiled vacantly and nodded.

Synonyms

• Empty: Containing nothing; not filled.
• Unoccupied: Not being lived in or used.
• Blank: Showing no understanding, reaction, or emotion.
• Vacuous: Having or showing a lack of thought or intelligence.

Antonyms

• Occupied: In use; filled.
• Engaged: Busy; involved.
• Attentive: Paying close attention.

Related Phrases

• "With a vacant expression/look": With a face that shows no understanding or interest.

  • He just stood there with a vacant expression.

• "Lie vacant": To remain empty or unused.

  • The building has lain vacant for years.

Adjective

1. without an occupant or incumbent
   • the throne is never vacant
2. void of thought or knowledge
   • a vacant mind