chasm

noun

ˈka-zəm 

1

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

built a bridge over the chasm

2

: a marked division, separation, or difference

the chasm between the rich and the poor

Synonyms

• abysm
• abyss
• deep
• gulf
• ocean

Examples of chasm in a Sentence

a chasm in the ocean floor

Recent Examples on the Web

The crescent moon faintly illuminated the canyon’s highest peaks and spires, but most of the chasm was an inky black. —Lane Sainty, USA TODAY, 24 Nov. 2024

With countries on opposite ends of a massive chasm, tensions ran high as delegations tried to close the gap in expectations. —Melinda Walling, The Christian Science Monitor, 24 Nov. 2024

This legally dubious claim of regulatory authority over a common business practice flies in the face of case-by-case antitrust litigation and ignores antitrust principles, creating an enormous chasm between FTC and DOJ antitrust enforcement practices. —Alden Abbott, Forbes, 20 Nov. 2024

There are only five days left until Election Day and a chasm has formed in what little foundation remains. —Makena Kelly, WIRED, 31 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

circa 1594, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

chasm

noun

ˈkaz-əm 

: a deep split or gap in the earth