sinkhole

noun

sink·​hole ˈsiŋk-ˌhōl How to pronounce sinkhole (audio)
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
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.
Speaking of sinkholes, the state legislature is considering a proposal to fund urban transit systems with a tax on tickets to sporting events. Susan Shelley, Oc Register, 12 Apr. 2025 The pipe break in a side yard of a house in the 800 block of Brockton Street was discovered at about 10 a.m. March 17 when city public works staff received a report of a sinkhole about 5 feet deep and 3 feet by 4 feet across. Gary Warth, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Mar. 2025 The cause of the sinkhole remains under investigation. Greg Norman, Fox News, 25 Mar. 2025 Oh Se-hoon also told reporters at the scene on Monday that officials will work to identify the cause of the sinkhole as soon as possible, per NBC News. Gabrielle Rockson, People.com, 25 Mar. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Sinkhole.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sinkhole. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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