chasm

noun

ˈka-zəm 

1

: a deep cleft in the surface of a planet (such as the earth) : gorge

built a bridge over the chasm

2

: a marked division, separation, or difference

the chasm between the rich and the poor

Synonyms

• abysm
• abyss
• deep
• gulf
• ocean

Examples of chasm in a Sentence

a chasm in the ocean floor

Recent Examples on the Web

They are each set to protect opposite sides of the chasm and are not allowed to communicate with one another, but must work together to protect the secret of what's in the gorge from coming out. —Rebecca Aizin, People.com, 14 Feb. 2025

The big picture: Although a chasm clearly persists, the national Black unemployment gap is about the lowest it's been since at least late 1978 — the earliest period included in EPI's estimates. —Alex Fitzpatrick, Axios, 5 Feb. 2025

Cumberbatch, in a few moments, expresses the depth of this father’s agony, the terrifying chasm of it. —Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 26 Jan. 2025

The Skymaster was largely forgotten, at least in the official and public domain, creating a chasm of silence for the victims’ families. —Francine Uenuma, Smithsonian Magazine, 23 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin chasma, from Greek; akin to Latin hiare to yawn — more at yawn

First Known Use

circa 1594, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

chasm

noun

ˈkaz-əm 

: a deep split or gap in the earth