chasm

chasm

noun \ˈka-z^əm\

Definition of CHASM

1

: a deep cleft in the surface of a planet (as the earth) : gorge

2

: a marked division, separation, or difference

Examples of CHASM

1. <a chasm in the ocean floor>

Origin of CHASM

Latin chasma, from Greek; akin to Latin hiare to yawn — more at yawn

First Known Use: 1596

Related to CHASM

Synonyms: abysm, abyss, deep, gulf, ocean

Related Words: cleft, crevasse, crevice, fissure; cavern, hole, hollow, pit; breadth, expanse, extent, reach, spread, stretch; black hole, emptiness, nothingness, vacancy, vacuity, vacuum, void

[+]more[-]hide

Other Geology Terms

anthracite, boulder, cwm, erratic, igneous, intrusive, mesa, sedimentary, silt, swale

Rhymes with CHASM

plasm, spasm