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 of chasm

• abyss
• ocean

Examples of chasm in a Sentence

a chasm in the ocean floor

Recent Examples on the Web

Gaping construction holes may be eyesores for visitors, but to those of us who live and work in Central Indiana these chasms represent our future — projects that will infuse Indianapolis with new life. —Shari Rudavsky, IndyStar, 11 Jan. 2026

Yet, talks have dragged with a notable chasm separating the two sides. —Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 9 Jan. 2026

But most of their statements were tinged with an element of plain relief, despite the obvious chasm that had just been opened up beneath the world. —Séamus Malekafzali, Washington Post, 8 Jan. 2026

The title itself is a key thematic element, referring to the Sirāt, the razor-thin bridge in Islamic eschatology that spans the chasm between paradise and hell. —Robert Lang, Deadline, 7 Jan. 2026

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