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

Therein lies the problem — the two factors that create the wide chasm between Category A and Category C restaurants in Charlotte. —Timothy Depeugh, Charlotte Observer, 3 Apr. 2025

The Broncos did not lose because of a huge chasm between Nix and Josh Allen. —Troy Renck, Denver Post, 29 Mar. 2025

This chasm between how companies and customers perceive support is starting to close, thanks to a new wave of solution providers, each bringing novel technology and a customer success mindset to the space. —Alexander Puutio, Forbes.com, 26 Mar. 2025

This labor gap is a continuously-widening chasm that is being spurred on by developments in AI. —Rachel Wells, Forbes, 25 Mar. 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

Rhymes for chasm

• bronchospasm
• cytoplasm
• ectoplasm
• neoplasm
• protoplasm
• vasospasm
• chiasm
• germplasm
• phantasm
• sarcasm
• enthusiasm
• iconoclasm

Kids Definition

chasm

noun

ˈkaz-əm 

: a deep split or gap in the earth