Shallow Meaning

Shallow

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Having little depth, either in terms of physical measurement (e.g., a shallow pool) or figurative meaning (e.g., a shallow personality).
2. Not deep or profound, often used to describe a lack of intellectual, emotional, or moral depth.
3. Superficial, or lacking in seriousness, thoroughness, or substance.
4. A shallow body of water is one that is not deep.

History and Origin

The word “shallow” originates from the Old English word sceald, meaning “superficial” or “not deep,” which is related to the modern word shallow. It has been used since at least the 14th century to describe bodies of water and, over time, extended to metaphorical meanings describing surface-level characteristics or qualities, particularly in terms of intelligence, emotions, or social behavior.

Detailed Explanation

“Shallow” describes something that lacks depth, whether it refers to a physical characteristic like water or an intangible trait, such as someone’s personality or thoughts. In a literal sense, it is often used to describe water or other spaces that are not deep, such as a shallow river or a shallow swimming pool. When used metaphorically, it often refers to individuals or ideas that are perceived as lacking substance or complexity. A “shallow person” might be someone who is concerned only with surface-level appearances and is uninterested in deep or meaningful conversations. The term can also describe something that is superficial or cursory, lacking in thoroughness or serious consideration.

Example Sentences

1. The lake was too shallow for boating, so we decided to swim instead.
2. His shallow understanding of the subject was evident in his presentation.
3. The shallow waters near the shore made it easy to wade through.
4. She was criticized for her shallow approach to solving complex issues.
5. The shallow pool was perfect for young children to play in.
6. They avoided talking about anything deep, sticking to shallow conversation topics.
7. The shallow river was easy to cross without getting your feet wet.
8. Despite his shallow exterior, he cared deeply about the environment.
9. The shallow nature of the film made it less engaging than expected.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Superficial – Lacking depth or seriousness, often used to describe actions or people focused only on the surface.
2. Surface-level – Concerned only with the most visible or easily observed parts, not deeper meaning.
3. Cursory – Done quickly and without thorough attention, often implying a lack of depth.
4. Frivolous – Lacking in seriousness or substance, often used to describe shallow behavior.
5. Trivial – Of little importance or significance, often used to describe shallow thoughts or ideas.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Depth – The opposite of shallow, referring to how deep something is, either physically or metaphorically.
2. Superficiality – The quality of being shallow, focusing on surface features rather than deeper qualities.
3. Shallowness – The state of being shallow, either in terms of water or a lack of intellectual or emotional depth.
4. Frivolity – Lightheartedness or lack of seriousness, often associated with shallow behavior or attitudes.
5. Lightweight – Lacking in intellectual or emotional depth, similar to being shallow.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Narrow – Limited in scope or depth, often used to describe limited viewpoints or shallow understanding.
2. Empty – Lacking depth or substance, often used metaphorically to describe shallow feelings or ideas.
3. Shallow-minded – A term used to describe someone who does not think deeply or consider things thoroughly.
4. Inconsiderate – Lacking thoughtfulness or depth of understanding, similar to shallow behavior.
5. Shallow-water – Refers to bodies of water that are not deep, similar to shallow pools or rivers.

Antonyms

1. Deep
2. Complex
3. Substantial
4. Profound
5. Thoughtful