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 particular, the city’s stormwater system is failing as pipes have eroded and caused sinkholes to pop up in some parts of the city. Taylor O'Connor, Kansas City Star, 5 Nov. 2025 For more than 40 years, what is now known as the ISS has been a sinkhole for money. Jeffrey Kluger, Time, 31 Oct. 2025 The woman hunkered down inside her Food for the Poor home, which was built six years ago, and watched as the storm ripped off part of her roof and led to a sinkhole opening up in her bedroom. Abigail Adams, PEOPLE, 30 Oct. 2025 From flooding to hurricanes and sinkholes, homeowners in the county face a number of challenges which makes coverage more expensive—especially considering that flood insurance is not part of a standard policy. Giulia Carbonaro, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 Oct. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Sinkhole.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sinkhole. Accessed 7 Nov. 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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