sinkhole

noun

sink·​hole ˈsiŋk-ˌhōl How to pronounce sinkhole (audio)
1
: a hollow place or depression in which drainage collects
2
: a hollow in a limestone region that communicates with a cavern or passage
3
4
: something (such as an unprofitable investment) that steadily drains money or resources
a financial sinkhole

Examples of sinkhole in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In the modern era, that tension is perhaps best exemplified in Florida, where coastal erosion, sinkholes, and other environmental factors have become a constant challenge in the march toward upward construction. Rafi Schwartz, The Week Us, theweek, 24 Dec. 2024 The spa is also tied to history and is centered around a cenote, a sinkhole surrounded by rocks that was used by the Mayans. Mary Holland, AFAR Media, 19 Dec. 2024 The sinkhole was about the size of a four-story building and forced authorities to close I-80 eastbound for a few miles. Joseph Wilkinson, New York Daily News, 30 Dec. 2024 New Jersey sinkhole:Photos show 40-foot-deep depression on Interstate 80 Investigation into cause of crash underway Department officials said that an investigation involving the Delray Beach Police Department and officials from Brightline is underway. James Powel, USA TODAY, 28 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sinkhole 

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sinkhole was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near sinkhole

Cite this Entry

“Sinkhole.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sinkhole. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

sinkhole

noun
sink·​hole ˈsiŋk-ˌhōl How to pronounce sinkhole (audio)
: a hollow place in which drainage collects

More from Merriam-Webster on sinkhole

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