English Reference
noun

filler

n.
US /ˈfɪɫɝ/ UK /fˈɪlɐ/ filler UK spelling fillers

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    a substance used to fill cracks or holes in a surface, like a wall or wood.

    a semisolid substance applied to fill gaps, cracks, or pores in a structural surface before painting or finishing.

    Simple

    He used some white filler to hide the small holes left by the picture hooks.

    In context

    Before applying the final coat of gloss, ensure that all imperfections in the woodwork are addressed with a high-quality wood filler.

    puttysealantcaulk
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Linguistics

    a sound or word like 'um' or 'ah' that you use while thinking of what to say next.

    a sound, word, or phrase used in spoken discourse to signal a pause or hesitation without giving up the speaker's turn.

    Simple

    Try to avoid using too many fillers like 'you know' during your presentation.

    In context

    The speaker's excessive use of vocal fillers made it difficult for the audience to follow the logical progression of his argument.

    filled pausehesitation marker
  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Informal Television

    extra material in a TV show, book, or album that is only there to make it longer.

    content of lower quality or importance used to occupy a specific time slot or physical space in a media production.

    Simple

    The first three songs are great, but the rest of the album is just filler.

    In context

    Critics argued that the mid-season episodes were merely filler designed to stretch the narrative arc to a full twelve-episode order.

    paddingstopgap
  4. 04 C1 Advanced Technical Medicine

    a substance injected under the skin to make it look smoother or younger.

    a dermal substance injected beneath the skin to restore volume, smooth wrinkles, or enhance facial contours.

    Simple

    She decided to get lip fillers to give her face a different look.

    In context

    The clinician explained the risks associated with synthetic fillers compared to those made from hyaluronic acid.

    dermal fillerinjectable
  5. 05 C1 Advanced Technical Science

    a cheap substance added to a product to make it heavier or thicker.

    a relatively inert ingredient added to a mixture to modify its physical properties or reduce the cost by increasing volume.

    Simple

    Some cheap pet foods use cereal as a filler instead of real meat.

    In context

    The manufacturer added calcium carbonate as a filler to the plastic resin to improve rigidity while reducing production costs.

    bulking agentextender

Usage fillers despite the risks

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated