vacuous
Pronunciation: adjective. Synonyms: vacant, inane, inscrutable
adjective
Definition of vacuous
lacking intelligence or thought
Synonyms for vacuous
- vacant
- inane
- inscrutable
vacuous in a Sentence
- The actor gave a vacuous smile during the interview.
Why vacuous Matters for GRE & SAT
"vacuous" is a adjective that means "lacking intelligence or thought" closely related to words like "vacant", "inane", "inscrutable". As a word starting with V, it belongs to a cluster of GRE and SAT vocabulary that test-takers often encounter in Verbal Reasoning, Text Completion, and Reading Comprehension sections.
On the GRE, understanding "vacuous" helps you distinguish between closely related answer choices in Sentence Equivalence questions. On the SAT, recognizing this word in context strengthens your performance on Craft & Structure and Words in Context questions. Seeing how "vacuous" is used in sentences — like the examples above — builds the contextual understanding that standardized tests reward.
Study tip: Start with the definition and part of speech (adjective). Then learn its 3 synonyms to build a word network. Finally, practice with spaced repetition to move "vacuous" into long-term memory.
How to Remember vacuous
One effective way to remember "vacuous" (adjective) is to group it with similar words you already know: "vacant" and "inane" and "inscrutable". When you encounter "vacuous" on a test, these synonym connections help you quickly recall its meaning — "lacking intelligence or thought".
Use flashcard apps with spaced repetition to review "vacuous" at increasing intervals until it becomes automatic.
More Vocabulary Words Starting with V
- vacillate — go back and forth with one's view
- vacillate — To alternate between different opinions or actions
- valid — Having a sound basis in logic or fact; reasonable
- valid — Having a sound basis in logic or fact; reasonable
- valid — Having a sound basis; legally acceptable
- validate — To check or prove the accuracy of something
- valor — strength of mind in the face of danger; bravery
- vanquish — defeat completely
- vapid — uninteresting, lacking flavor or spark
- variable — An element or factor that is likely to vary or change