VocabDictionary

chasm

/ˈkæz.əm/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A deep fissure, gorge, or abyss in the earth's surface.

Example Sentences:
  • The hikers peered nervously into the dark chasm that split the mountain trail.
  • A narrow bridge spanned the rocky chasm.
2.noun

A profound difference or division between people, viewpoints, or feelings.

Example Sentences:
  • There is a widening chasm between the two political parties regarding economic policy.
  • Despite their shared history, a cultural chasm kept them from truly understanding one another.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “chasm”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'chasma', which in turn comes from the Ancient Greek 'khasma', meaning 'a gaping hollow' or 'cleft'. It is related to the Greek verb 'khainein', meaning 'to gape', which shares a Proto-Indo-European root with the word 'chaos'.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'chasm' as a 'catastrophic gap' in the earth.

Frequently Asked Questions About “chasm

1. What is the meaning of “chasm” in English?

In English, chasm (noun) is defined as: “A deep fissure, gorge, or abyss in the earth's surface.”.

2. How do you use “chasm” in a sentence?

The hikers peered nervously into the dark chasm that split the mountain trail.

3. What are English synonyms of “chasm”?

Common synonyms include:abyss,gorge,fissure,ravine,rift

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “chasm”?

Derived from the Latin 'chasma', which in turn comes from the Ancient Greek 'khasma', meaning 'a gaping hollow' or 'cleft'. It is related to the Greek verb 'khainein', meaning 'to gape', which shares a Proto-Indo-European root with the word 'chaos'.