Fillers are substances or items used to occupy space, add bulk, or provide a temporary function, often to enhance appearance, improve texture, or extend the life of another product. They can be inert materials added to a composite to improve its properties, stylistic additions in text or conversation to hold one's place, or substances injected into the skin to reduce wrinkles or add volume. Their purpose is multifaceted, ranging from purely aesthetic to functionally advantageous, depending on the context in which they are applied.
Fillers meaning with examples
- Cosmetic fillers, such as hyaluronic acid, are injected under the skin to plump areas and smooth wrinkles, providing a more youthful appearance. The dermatologist used fillers to correct the nasolabial folds and give the patient a more refreshed look. The procedure is quick and offers noticeable results with minimal downtime. These fillers are often temporary and gradually absorbed by the body.
- In the construction industry, fillers like sand or gravel are used to bulk up concrete and reduce the amount of expensive cement needed. The builder added stone fillers to the concrete mixture to improve its strength and reduce costs on the project. These inexpensive materials provide structural integrity and strength to buildings.
- During the interview, the candidate used a lot of verbal fillers like 'um' and 'like' which distracted from her points. Her overuse of fillers made it hard to follow the arguments of her responses, even when they were thought-provoking. Using fewer fillers makes the candidate seem more articulate.
- Food manufacturers often use fillers, such as cellulose or starches, to add volume and texture to processed foods. Some ingredients, like sawdust, can be considered food fillers, especially in pet food. These fillers sometimes improve the appearance of foods, but do little in terms of their nutritional value.