sinkhole

noun

sink·​hole ˈsiŋk-ˌhōl 

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

Trapped in sinkholes or lost within labyrinthine passages, these animals died, and their remains became fossilized and preserved by rising water levels. —Martin Broen, Smithsonian Magazine, 1 Oct. 2024

Whitefish Bay sinkhole will cost $5.5 million to fix Remember the sinkhole that formed in Whitefish Bay in June, after 90-year-old storm sewer infrastructure failed? —Hope Karnopp, Journal Sentinel, 2 Oct. 2024

Sandy Springs mayor Rusty Paul said a sinkhole in the 4500 block of Lake Forrest Drive on Atlanta's side of the roadway is closed as the sidewalk has collapsed. —Kristal Dixon, Axios, 27 Sep. 2024

However, cliffs, sinkholes, caves, creeks and dense brush are posing a challenge. —Ray Padilla, The Courier-Journal, 11 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

sinkhole

noun

sink·​hole ˈsiŋk-ˌhōl 

: a hollow place in which drainage collects