Definition

A hole or depression in the ground that forms when the surface layer collapses, often found in areas with limestone, and can lead to underground passages.

Example

The heavy rain caused a sinkhole to form in the middle of the road.

Conversation

Did you hear about that huge sinkhole that opened up downtown?

Yeah, I saw it on the news! It's crazy how fast they can form.

I wonder what caused that particular sinkhole to appear.

Probably some underground water issues; it happens more often than we think.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sinkhole → It is formed from "sink" (from Old English "sincan", meaning to fall or descend) and "hole" (from Old English "hol", meaning a hollow place). A sinkhole refers to a hollow place that has formed as a result of the ground sinking or collapsing.

Memory Tip

Imagine the ground 'falling' ('sink') into a 'hollow' ('hole') — that's how you can remember that a sinkhole is a depression in the ground.

Visually Confused Words