chasm

noun

ˈka-zəm 

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

Synonyms

• abyss
• ocean

Examples of chasm in a Sentence

a chasm in the ocean floor

Recent Examples on the Web

Explore 13 miles of trails or take in the treetop views from the Mile High Swinging Bridge, which covers an 80-foot chasm and sits at an elevation of 5,305 feet. —Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 26 Sep. 2025

That ever-persistent chasm that has existed between white students and those of color in public schools has remained stubborn in Michigan, where more than 18% of Michigan's public school students are Black. —Lily Altavena, Freep.com, 25 Sep. 2025

The absolute chasm on defense after the top pair is another. —The Athletic Nhl, New York Times, 24 Sep. 2025

The news takes her entire family by surprise, creating a chasm and putting everyone to the test. —Zac Ntim, Deadline, 21 Sep. 2025

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

Rhymes for chasm

• bronchospasm
• cytoplasm
• ectoplasm
• neoplasm
• protoplasm
• vasospasm
• chiasm
• germplasm
• phantasm
• sarcasm
• enthusiasm
• iconoclasm

Kids Definition

chasm

noun

ˈkaz-əm 

: a deep split or gap in the earth