Definition

Relating to activities or equipment that take place in the drilled part of an oil well, either below the surface of the ground or underwater.

Example

The engineers installed downhole sensors to monitor the temperature and pressure in the well.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new downhole technology they are using for drilling?

Yeah, it sounds really innovative and efficient!

I read that it can improve oil recovery rates significantly.

That's exciting! It could change the whole industry.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Downhole → It is formed from "down" (from Old English "dūn", meaning downward or lower) and "hole" (from Old English "hol", meaning a hollow place or cavity). The word "downhole" refers to something located in a hole or cavity below the surface, particularly in contexts like drilling or mining.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is located 'downward' ('down') in a 'hollow place' ('hole') — that's what downhole means.

Visually Confused Words