Sinkhole Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sinkhole

[ˈsɪŋkhoʊl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

geology

A sinkhole is a depression or hole in the ground caused by some form of collapse of the surface layer.

Synonyms

cenote, doline, swallow hole.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sinkhole	Common term for a depression or hole in the ground caused by some form of collapse of the surface layer. Often found in urban areas, causing damage. The road was closed off due to a massive sinkhole. Homes in the neighborhood had to be evacuated because of the growing sinkhole.
swallow hole	A natural depression or hole where a stream or river disappears underground. Typically used in the context of hydrology or caving. The stream vanished into the swallow hole, making it difficult to track. Explorers discovered several new chambers connected to the swallow hole.
doline	A shallow, enclosed depression in the ground, typically found in karst landscapes. Scientific or geological term often used in academic contexts. The researchers studied the formation of the doline in the karst region. Dolines can vary greatly in size and shape, depending on the underlying geology.
cenote	A natural pit or sinkhole resulting from the collapse of limestone bedrock that exposes groundwater underneath, primarily found in Mexico. Often associated with historical or cultural significance. Tourists love to swim in the clear waters of the cenote. Ancient civilizations used the cenote for rituals and as a water source.

Examples of usage

The sinkhole appeared overnight after heavy rain.
The sinkhole swallowed up a portion of the road.
People were evacuated due to the sinkhole threatening their homes.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

urban development

A sinkhole is an area of ground that has caved in or collapsed, especially in a city or urban environment.

Synonyms

cavity, depression, pit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sinkhole	A sinkhole is often used in geological contexts to describe a large hole that suddenly appears in the ground due to the collapse of its surface layer. It's typically caused by natural processes like erosion. A massive sinkhole opened up in the middle of the street, swallowing several cars. The house was destroyed when a sinkhole formed beneath it.
cavity	Cavity is frequently used in medical or dental contexts to describe a small, hollow space, especially inside the body or items. The dentist filled the cavity in my molar. The X-ray revealed a cavity in the upper section of the patient's lung.
depression	Depression in this context relates to a low area in a surface, commonly used in geography or general descriptions. Note that it can also refer to a mental health condition, but that's not relevant here. After the rain, water accumulated in the depression in our backyard. The geographical survey identified several depressions in the terrain.
pit	A pit generally refers to a large hole or excavation in the ground, often created by human activity, such as for mining or disposal purposes. They dug a pit for the campfire. The old quarry has been abandoned, and now it is just a huge pit.

Examples of usage

The construction site had to be abandoned due to the presence of a sinkhole.
The sinkhole opened up in the middle of the street, causing traffic chaos.
The sinkhole was filled with concrete to prevent further collapses.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Geological Causes

Sinkholes often form when rainwater seeps into the ground, dissolving soluble rocks such as limestone.
They can grow suddenly and may range in size from a few feet to hundreds of feet across.
In some areas, human activities like drilling or intensive water usage can increase the likelihood of sinkholes.

Cultural Impact

The sudden appearance of a sinkhole can create significant panic and highlight the vulnerabilities of urban infrastructure.
Movies and video games sometimes feature sinkholes as dramatic plot devices, symbolizing chaos or hidden dangers.
In folklore, sinkholes have been described as portals to other worlds or as places of mystery and peril.

Environmental Concerns

Sinkholes can lead to the loss of property and threaten ecosystems that depend on stable ground.
They often disrupt local water flow and can cause flooding in surrounding areas if drainage changes occur.
In some regions, sinkholes can create habitats for unique plant and animal species.

Famous Events

In 2010, a sinkhole in Guatemala City swallowed an entire street and several buildings, making headlines worldwide.
A massive sinkhole opened up in Florida’s Lake County in 2012, leading to geological studies and safety assessments.
In 2013, a sinkhole in Kentucky was linked to a mystery around a missing car that was discovered in the depths after international media attention.

Scientific Studies

Geologists study sinkholes to better understand ground stability and how human activity impacts earth’s materials.
Monitoring and modeling technology has improved, allowing scientists to predict sinkhole locations more accurately.
Specialists have developed techniques to reinforce ground near potential sinkholes to prevent accidents and property damage.

Origin of 'sinkhole'

The term 'sinkhole' originated in the 18th century from the combination of 'sink' (to fall or collapse) and 'hole' (an opening or cavity). Sinkholes are commonly formed in areas with soluble bedrock such as limestone, where underground erosion leads to the collapse of surface layers.