Definitions for: Vacuum


[n] an electrical home appliance that cleans by suction
[n] a region empty of matter
[n] the absence of matter
[v] clean with a vacuum cleaner



Webster (1913) Definition: Vac"u*um, n.; pl. E. Vacuums, L. Vacua. [L., fr.
vacuus empty. See Vacuous.]
1. (Physics) A space entirely devoid of matter (called also,
by way of distinction, absolute vacuum); hence, in a more
general sense, a space, as the interior of a closed
vessel, which has been exhausted to a high or the highest
degree by an air pump or other artificial means; as, water
boils at a reduced temperature in a vacuum.



2. The condition of rarefaction, or reduction of pressure
below that of the atmosphere, in a vessel, as the
condenser of a steam engine, which is nearly exhausted of
air or steam, etc.; as, a vacuum of 26 inches of mercury,
or 13 pounds per square inch.

Vacuum brake, a kind of continuous brake operated by
exhausting the air from some appliance under each car, and
so causing the pressure of the atmosphere to apply the
brakes.

Vacuum pan (Technol.), a kind of large closed metallic
retort used in sugar making for boiling down sirup. It is
so connected with an exhausting apparatus that a partial
vacuum is formed within. This allows the evaporation and
concentration to take place at a lower atmospheric
pressure and hence also at a lower temperature, which
largely obviates the danger of burning the sugar, and
shortens the process.

Vacuum pump. Same as Pulsometer, 1.

Vacuum tube (Phys.), a glass tube provided with platinum
electrodes and exhausted, for the passage of the
electrical discharge; a Geissler tube.



Vacuum valve, a safety valve opening inward to admit air to
a vessel in which the pressure is less than that of the
atmosphere, in order to prevent collapse.

Torricellian vacuum. See under Torricellian.

Synonyms: hoover, vacuity, vacuity, vacuum cleaner, vacuum-clean

See Also: clean, dust bag, emptiness, home appliance, Hoover, household appliance, make clean, part, region, vacuum bag

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