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

• abysm
• abyss
• deep
• gulf
• ocean

Examples of chasm in a Sentence

a chasm in the ocean floor

Recent Examples on the Web

That is Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Matheus Cunha (69 fouls), who has little to no hope of closing a 31-foul chasm. —Chris Waugh, New York Times, 9 May 2025

In Native communities, systemic exclusion from financial institutions has created a chasm that limits opportunity. —Oweesta, Forbes.com, 7 May 2025

Corruption has infected the body politic, leaving a chasm in local leadership desperate for someone to fill. —Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 23 Apr. 2025

Legislators in Springfield this upcoming session are being asked to help plug a $771 million budget chasm and approve an additional $1.5 billion in new mass transit funding. —Charles Selle, Chicago Tribune, 26 Mar. 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