sinkhole

noun

sink·​hole ˈsiŋk-ˌhōl How to pronounce sinkhole (audio)
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
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The Enquirer confirmed that there are at least two sinkholes in the area near where the E. coli was found. Elizabeth B. Kim, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025 The sinkhole problem began in December 2024, at first leading to a brief fix before more holes opened and authorities shut down I-80 eastbound entirely in February. Joseph Wilkinson, New York Daily News, 22 June 2025 What To Know There has been a succession of sinkholes on the interstate, beginning with a 40-by-40-foot collapse in December, followed by smaller 11-by-11 foot collapse 75 feet away in February and another 15-by-15 foot sinkhole opened up in March. Jasmine Laws, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 May 2025 The Nampa Police Department warned drivers of delays along Orchard Avenue and Caldwell Boulevard on Tuesday after a sinkhole developed at the intersection of the two streets. Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 24 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for sinkhole

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sinkhole was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Sinkhole.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sinkhole. Accessed 13 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

sinkhole

noun
sink·​hole ˈsiŋk-ˌhōl How to pronounce sinkhole (audio)
: a hollow place in which drainage collects

More from Merriam-Webster on sinkhole

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