Meaning & Definition of word "Sinkhole"

Sinkhole

/ˈsɪŋk.hoʊl/

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.

Etymology

The term originates from the natural processes of erosion and collapse that create a sinkhole.

Common Phrases and Expressions

sinkhole disaster:

A significant incident where a sinkhole causes damage to infrastructure or property.

sinkhole warning:

A signal or indication that a sinkhole may form or that there are risks of collapse.

Related Words

subsidence:

The gradual caving in or sinking of an area of land.

karst:

A type of landscape formed from the dissolution of soluble rocks, often featuring sinkholes and caves.

Slang Meanings of sinkhole

Meaning: An unexpected problem or issue that arises suddenly.

Example Sentence: We thought everything was fine until we hit a sinkhole in our project.