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.
Higgins has been pushing for the referendum to pass, having previously told the editorial board that some facilities have leaky roofs, mold, rust, sinkholes and other health and safety hazards. — Milena Malaver, Miami Herald, 23 Oct. 2026 Matt Randall, deputy director of Placer County Public Works, said the sinkholes are a symptom of a worsening problem. — Nicole Buss, Sacbee.com, 22 Oct. 2026 Some have polluted rivers, destroyed forests or contaminated cenotes [sinkholes], and all struggle with guilt. — Anna Marie De La Fuente, Variety, 22 Oct. 2026 That's the question in Penn Hills, where a growing sinkhole is raising concerns at the busy coffee shop. — Jessica Riley, CBS News, 21 Oct. 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 28 Oct. 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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