in the hole

phrase

1

: having a score below zero

2

: at a disadvantage

Examples of in the hole in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Pieces of the glass fence that once stood in front of the driveway, as well as concrete can be seen in the hole, as orange cones set up along the edge. — Lori A Bashian, FOXNews.com, 8 Sep. 2026

According to the rules of golf, the ball wasn’t in the hole yet. — Alan Webber, Chicago Tribune, 22 Aug. 2026

Rafael Devers scored from third with two outs in the fourth when Bericoto's sharp grounder in the hole bounced away from diving shortstop Brayan Rocchio toward the left field line. — ABC News, 19 Aug. 2026

On the Vikings’ third offensive play, Reese easily stopped Minnesota running back Jordan Mason in the hole for no gain. — Charlotte Carroll, New York Times, 16 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for in the hole

• amphibole
• asystole
• buttonhole
• casserole
• centriole
• decontrol
• glycerol
• metropole
• monopole
• multipole
• omeprazole
• oriole