as in hole
a sunken area forming a separate space
removal of the tree stump left a gaping pit in the yard
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of pit
Brittney Melton,
NPR,
25 June 2026
Lazy Horse went to see him together last summer at Long Island’s Jones Beach, a bizarre show where the entire pit got flooded.
—
Rob Sheffield,
Rolling Stone,
25 June 2026
Hannah Hudnall,
USA Today,
15 June 2026
Finishing third is the worst-case scenario, as that could potentially pit the USMNT against Spain, France or Portugal in the Round of 32.
—
Daniel Sperry,
Kansas City Star,
11 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for pit
Noun
The rapid spread of the disease is exacerbated by the nature of gold mining, which involves muddy pits filled with miners surrounding the town.
—
Brittney Melton,
NPR,
25 June 2026
Lazy Horse went to see him together last summer at Long Island’s Jones Beach, a bizarre show where the entire pit got flooded.
—
Rob Sheffield,
Rolling Stone,
25 June 2026
Verb
The competitions will pit thousands of players from around the globe across all game categories for the ultimate prize pool of $2 million.
—
Hannah Hudnall,
USA Today,
15 June 2026
Finishing third is the worst-case scenario, as that could potentially pit the USMNT against Spain, France or Portugal in the Round of 32.
—
Daniel Sperry,
Kansas City Star,
11 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for pit
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pit
Noun
-
The crash also resulted in a large hole in the side of the vessel.
-
The piece has seven holes for customization, and it’s designed to be worn at the hips or waist.
Verb
-
The shaky outing continued Sasaki’s post-breakthrough slide, but the setback barely dents the Dodgers’ commanding division cushion, with San Diego still eight games back in the standings.
-
Nelson left the hood dented, officials said.
Noun
-
The extra saliva helps rinse away food particles and bacteria that can contribute to cavities, making gum a useful addition to your travel routine.
-
Rather than a small drawer or tray, the divided top of West Elm’s storage coffee table rotates to reveal an empty storage cavity to fill with throw blankets, books, or video game controllers.
Verb
-
But, unfortunately, sitting all day kinks your body like a garden hose.
-
Stafford explains that this gap helps keep the hoses from being crushed or kinked, which can lead to speedy wear and tear, leaks, and drainage issues.
Cite this Entry
“Pit.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pit. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
