Definition

A deep hole or pit that collects waste, especially sewage, and can also refer to a very dirty or morally corrupt place.

Example

The abandoned building had turned into a cesspool of garbage and neglect.

Conversation

Did you hear about that old building downtown?

Yeah, I heard it's basically a cesspool of problems.

That's so true! It’s surprising they haven’t done anything about it yet.

I know, right? It's like they just want to let it become a bigger mess.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cesspool is formed from "cess" (from Old French *cesser*, meaning to cease or stop) and "pool" (from Old English *pōl*, meaning a small body of water). The word refers to a pit or reservoir where waste is collected and stopped, resembling a stagnant pool of refuse.

Memory Tip

Think of a place where waste 'ceases' to flow ('cess') and collects in a 'pool' — that's what a cesspool is.

Visually Confused Words