Shallow

Definition

The term "shallow" describes something that is of little depth, or someone who lacks intellectual or emotional depth.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈʃæl.oʊ/
• Respelling: SHAL-oh

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈʃæl.əʊ/
• Respelling: SHAL-oh

Etymology

The word "shallow" originates from Middle English "shalowe," likely derived from Old English "sceald," meaning "short" or "not deep." The term has evolved to include both physical and figurative meanings.

Derivatives

• Shallowness (noun)
• Shallowly (adverb)
• Shallowing (verb)
• Shallows (noun)
• Reshallow (verb, rare)

Synonyms

• Superficial
• Flat
• Trivial

Antonyms

• Deep
• Profound
• Significant

Usage

The term "shallow" can describe both physical depth and figurative meaning. For example, "The water is shallow near the shore" (adjective) or "He was criticized for his shallow analysis of the topic" (figurative use).

Related Terms

• Depth: The quality of being deep or profound.
• Superficial: Concerned with the surface or appearance.
• Profound: Having intellectual or emotional depth.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Of little depth: Refers to something that is not deep.
  • Example: "The lake is very shallow at this point."
• Lacking intellectual or emotional depth: Describes someone or something superficial or lacking substance.
  • Example: "Her argument was dismissed as shallow and uninformed."

Noun

• A shallow area: Refers to a place where the depth of water or another substance is minimal.
  • Example: "They waded through the shallows of the river."

Verb

• To make or become shallow: Refers to reducing the depth of something.
  • Example: "The drought has shallowed the lake significantly."