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
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
X-raying the past The setting for this natural history drama is a deep limestone sinkhole in Hispaniola.
—
Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 17 Dec. 2025
The engineers’ report also mentioned a nearby event in the Delta, when a sinkhole developed on Twitchell Island, which is in the southern corner of Sacramento County, most of the way to Walnut Creek.
—Ariane Lange, Sacbee.com, 5 Dec. 2025
Options include exploring historic Mayan ruins in the region, outdoor activities such as scuba diving in coral reefs and natural freshwater sinkholes, and a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene.
—Chase Jordan, Charlotte Observer, 4 Dec. 2025
Garrison Elementary closed in 2019 because of declining enrollment and the discovery of some large sinkholes on the property.
—Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for sinkhole
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Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 17 Dec. 2025
The engineers’ report also mentioned a nearby event in the Delta, when a sinkhole developed on Twitchell Island, which is in the southern corner of Sacramento County, most of the way to Walnut Creek.
—Ariane Lange, Sacbee.com, 5 Dec. 2025
Options include exploring historic Mayan ruins in the region, outdoor activities such as scuba diving in coral reefs and natural freshwater sinkholes, and a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene.
—Chase Jordan, Charlotte Observer, 4 Dec. 2025
Garrison Elementary closed in 2019 because of declining enrollment and the discovery of some large sinkholes on the property.
—Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for sinkhole
Cite this Entry
“Sinkhole.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sinkhole. Accessed 18 Dec. 2025.
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sinkhole
noun
sink·hole
ˈsiŋk-ˌhōl
: a hollow place in which drainage collects
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