fill

The word “fill” means to add enough of something to a container or space so that nothing more can fit. In plain terms, to make something full, or to satisfy a need, order, or role.

“Fill” is pronounced fihl (/fɪl/ in IPA).

Here is “fill” used in a sentence: “She filled the kettle with water.”

Words with a similar meaning to “fill” include get up in and swive.

The opposite of “fill” — its antonyms — is empty.

“Fill” is a verb.

The word “fill” comes from Old English. From Old English fyllan ("to fill, satisfy, complete"), rooted in the Germanic word for "full.".

“Fill” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.

Both mean to complete a form by adding the required information, and they are largely interchangeable. 'Fill out' is more common in American English, while 'fill in' is more common in British English. 'Fill in' can also mean adding a single missing detail, or temporarily taking someone's place at work.

The main opposite is 'empty', removing contents rather than adding them. 'Drain' fits liquids, 'unload' fits cargo, and 'vacate' fits a space that people leave. Where fill means to occupy something completely, its opposites all describe making it empty, hollow, or available again.

Pouring water into a glass until it reaches the brim is a clear example: you fill the glass. You might fill a bath, fill a tank with petrol, or fill a room with people. In each case you add enough of something that little or no space is left.