cenote

noun

ce·​no·​te si-ˈnō-tē How to pronounce cenote (audio)
: a deep sinkhole in limestone with a pool at the bottom that is found especially in Yucatán

Examples of cenote 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.
Tulum is also known for its cenotes, natural lazy river, and Maya healing rituals, three experiences that inevitably leave travelers wanting to return time and time again. — Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 3 Aug. 2026 Both properties are located on a private slice of coastline within a short drive to archeological sites, cenotes, and other natural attractions, as well as popular Mexico family vacation spots like Tulum and Playa del Carmen. — Gina Kramer, USA Today, 25 July 2026 These include everything from mountain buggy rides and cenote dives to private sails and visits to national parks—all within a 45-minute drive. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 June 2026 Fireflies, male seahorses, dark chocolate, cenotes, hummingbirds, coral, all make appearances—or are recurring characters—in these poems. — Diana Arterian, Literary Hub, 7 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cenote

Word History

Etymology

Mexican Spanish, from Yucatec ts'onot

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cenote was in 1841

Rhymes for cenote

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Browse Nearby Words

cenotaph
cenote
Cenozoic
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cenote.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cenote. Accessed 12 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on cenote

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cenote

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