H8414 תֹּהוּ tôhûw → Root
6 languagesRoot of the תהו tôhûw family (1 member).
A state of formlessness, emptiness, or desolation; specifically, an uninhabited or undistinguished expanse (as in the primeval earth "without form"), or, by extension, a place or situation characterized by disorder, futility, or utter lack. In prophetic and poetic contexts, also denotes chaos, futility, or that which is unreal or insubstantial.
Etymology
The term תֹּהוּ (tohu) is likely derived from a root conveying 'emptiness' or 'waste', but no cognate verb occurs in biblical Hebrew itself; related forms are attested in Northwest Semitic languages with senses like 'waste' or 'desolate.' The etymology remains uncertain.