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.
Law enforcement closed part of Garrity Boulevard to traffic near Interstate 84 after water flooded the roadway on Tuesday and a sinkhole formed. — Sally Krutzig, Idaho Statesman, 11 Aug. 2026 Gaze into Eternity Rockport State Recreation Area, Michigan’s 100th state park, sits 11 miles north of Alpena on 4,237 acres of former limestone quarry, sinkholes, and Lake Huron shoreline. — John Godfrey Published, Midwest Living, 8 Aug. 2026 Stormwater concerns Inadequate funding over the years has resulted in limited coverage areas and slow response for problems that arise in the city, like flooding problems, sinkhole repairs, clearing of pipes and inlets, and permit compliance. — Kendrick Calfee, Kansas City Star, 5 Aug. 2026 Officials said the break caused a sinkhole, forcing crews to shut off water in the area while repairs are made. — Ashley Paul, CBS News, 5 Aug. 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 18 Aug. 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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