Sinkhole/ˈsɪŋkhəʊl/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Sudden Danger Indicates unpredictability and potential hazards in daily life or narratives. Without warning, the street was cordoned off due to a sinkhole. Pro Tip 2/3Unexpected Expense Often used metaphorically to describe sudden financial or resource drains. The project's budget faced a sinkhole when unexpected repairs were needed. Pro Tip 3/3Media Coverage Frequent subject in news reports when discussing urban problems or natural disasters. A large sinkhole in the downtown area made headlines today.