pothole

[ pot-hohl ]

noun

1. a deep hole; pit.
2. a hole formed in pavement, as by excessive use or by extremes of weather.
3. a more or less cylindrical hole formed in rock by the grinding action of the detrital material in eddying water.
4. a cave opening vertically from the ground surface.

pothole

/ ˈpɒtˌhəʊl /

noun

1. geography
   1. a deep hole in limestone areas resulting from action by running water See also sinkhole
   2. a circular hole in the bed of a river produced by abrasion
2. a deep hole, esp one produced in a road surface by wear or weathering

Word History and Origins

Origin of pothole¹

First recorded in 1820–30; pot ¹ + hole

Example Sentences

He takes pictures of potholes with plastic ducks in.

From BBC

Of course, no city can completely prevent tree branches from falling on cars or immediately fix every pothole.

From Los Angeles Times

But Mid Ulster, where the largest amount of money was spent, still has one of the highest numbers of potholes in Northern Ireland.

From BBC

Experts in the potholes and pitfalls facing writers — especially investigation-minded or merely activist journalists — say they’ve received a rising number of inquiries from those considering launching a freelance career.

From Los Angeles Times

I pedaled slowly for the next few blocks, not watching for opening car doors, broken glass or potholes.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• crater