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

Arizona animal control officer rescues dog from a sinkhole An animal control officer in Yavapai County, Arizona, rescues a dog believed to be stuck in an over 10-foot-deep sinkhole for about two days. —Greg Wehner, FOXNews.com, 1 Apr. 2025

The first sinkhole opened and was repaired in December. —Theresa Braine, New York Daily News, 31 Mar. 2025

The plume of 1,4-dioxane contamination had yet another helper, the state investigation reveals – an unfortunate location of ancient sinkholes. —Kevin Spear, Orlando Sentinel, 28 Feb. 2025

The work began in July with temporary bridging to cover the sinkhole, followed by relocating water lines and partial closures to do more extensive repairs. —Ashley MacKin Solomon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 1 Feb. 2025

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