sinkhole

noun

sink·​hole ˈsiŋk-ˌhōl 

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

: sink sense 2

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

The resolution also draws attention to potential geological and environmental concerns, citing its underground porous limestone that creates risks for sinkholes and water movement, in addition to the city’s history of major flooding. —ABC News, 4 Mar. 2026

From giant craters in Newton, to sinkhole size tire busters in Brighton, potholes are popping up in cities and towns across Massachusetts. —Paul Burton, CBS News, 3 Mar. 2026

University of Nebraska-Omaha Public Safety security cameras show the moment two vehicles fell into a sinkhole on Tuesday — and how the drivers were able to get out. —Ira Gorawara, New York Times, 28 Feb. 2026

Motorists in Omaha, Nebraska, were left in the lurch after a sinkhole opened up, trapping them in an open cavity made in a roadway on Tuesday, Feb. 24. —Amaris Encinas, USA Today, 25 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for sinkhole

• bankroll
• bedroll
• borehole
• cajole
• catchpole
• charcoal
• condole
• control
• dipole
• downhole
• enroll
• extol

Kids Definition

sinkhole

noun

sink·​hole ˈsiŋk-ˌhōl 

: a hollow place in which drainage collects