1
: a deep cleft in the surface of a planet (such as the earth) : gorge
built a bridge over the chasm
2
: a marked division, separation, or difference
the chasm between the rich and the poor

Examples of chasm in a Sentence

a chasm in the ocean floor
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.
Underscore those last three words — in the West — because the Grizzlies’ example illustrates a key truth about the difference between the East and West, one that possibly helps maintain the near-continuous chasm in strength between the two conferences. John Hollinger, New York Times, 10 Oct. 2025 But as Abetti freely admits, there is a chasm between a brilliant idea and a lasting enterprise. Malana Vantyler, USA Today, 3 Oct. 2025 Nearly 3,000 growing chasms have opened up in dozens of towns, swallowing up roads and houses in their path. New Atlas, 2 Oct. 2025 Two tightrope-style suspension bridges, one of which stretches 45 feet across a 200-foot chasm. AFAR Media, 30 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for chasm

Word History

Etymology

Latin chasma, from Greek; akin to Latin hiare to yawn — more at yawn

First Known Use

circa 1594, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of chasm was circa 1594

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Chasm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chasm. Accessed 14 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

chasm

noun
: a deep split or gap in the earth

More from Merriam-Webster on chasm

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