sinkhole

noun

sink·​hole ˈsiŋk-ˌhōl How to pronounce sinkhole (audio)
Synonyms of sinkholenext
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
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.
The cause of that sinkhole remains under investigation. — Katie Houlis, CBS News, 17 June 2026 The runway was previously closed after a sinkhole formed around the Memorial Day travel rush. — Bonny Chu, FOXNews.com, 18 June 2026 All things that have been alleged — vibrations from nearby construction, foundation failure, sinkholes and storm surge effects — have been ruled out as playing a part in the collapse. — Nbc South Florida, NBC news, 23 June 2026 Florida’s highest waterfall tumbles down a verdant, 100-foot-deep sinkhole. — Elizabeth Rhodes, Travel + Leisure, 23 June 2026 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

Rhymes for sinkhole

See All Rhymes for sinkhole

Browse Nearby Words

sinkhead
sinkhole
sink in
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sinkhole.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sinkhole. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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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

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for sinkhole

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about sinkhole

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