ausleeren

Definition & meaning

The verb ausleeren primarily means to empty a container or space by removing everything inside it. It is commonly used when referring to physical objects that hold contents, such as a trash can, a mailbox, a glass, or a bag.

There are two main nuances to its use:

1. To empty a container: This focuses on the container itself becoming empty. For example, "den Mülleimer ausleeren" (to empty the trash can).
2. To pour or dump out contents: This focuses on the action of moving the contents out of the container. For example, "das Wasser aus dem Eimer ausleeren" (to pour the water out of the bucket).

In a more figurative sense, it can occasionally be used to describe "emptying" one's heart or thoughts, though other verbs are more common for that specific context.

Grammar & Word origin

Grammar:

• Verb type: It is a separable verb (trennbares Verb). In a sentence, the prefix aus- moves to the end: "Ich leere den Becher aus."
• Principal parts: ausleeren (infinitive) – leert aus (present) – leerte aus (past) – hat ausgeleert (perfect).
• Transitive: It is a transitive verb, meaning it requires a direct object in the accusative case.

Word origin: The word is a combination of the prefix aus- ↗, meaning "out," and the verb leeren ↗, which means "to empty." The verb leeren is derived from the adjective leer ↗, which comes from the Old High German word lāri, meaning "empty" or "unoccupied."

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

• leeren ↗: The base verb, meaning to make something empty.
• entleeren ↗: A more formal or technical synonym, often used for tanks, bladders, or industrial containers.
• ausschütten ↗: Specifically refers to pouring out liquids or granular solids (like sand).
• auskippen ↗: To tip something over so the contents fall out.

Antonyms:

• füllen ↗: To fill something.
• auffüllen ↗: To refill or top something up.
• befüllen ↗: To put contents into a container (often used in technical or formal contexts).