Meaning & Definition of word "Sinkhole"

noun:

• 1. A depression or hole in the ground caused by the collapse of a surface layer, often occurring in areas with limestone or other soluble rocks.
  • Example: After the heavy rains, a large sinkhole appeared in the middle of the road.
• 2. An area where water can flow into the ground, often leading to underground drainage systems.
  • Example: The sinkhole on the farm was a natural formation that helped replenish the groundwater.
• 3. A metaphorical term for a situation that consumes resources or effort, creating a loss.
  • Example: The abandoned project became a sinkhole for the company's finances, draining money without any return.
• 4. A term used in environmental studies to describe a natural depression in the earth's surface.
  • Example: The researchers studied the sinkhole as part of their geological survey of the area.
• 5. A collapse of the ground that can pose significant danger to people and infrastructure.
  • Example: Due to the sinkhole, several houses had to be evacuated for safety precautions.