swallow hole

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Explanation of “Swallow Hole”

Definition: A "swallow hole" is a noun that refers to a natural depression or hole in the ground, which connects to an underground passage. This often happens in areas with limestone, where the ground has eroded or where a cave roof has collapsed.

Usage Instructions

• Context: The term is mainly used in geology or when discussing natural landforms.
• When to Use: Use "swallow hole" when describing a specific kind of hole in the earth, particularly in regions where limestone is prevalent.

Examples

1. Simple Example: "The hiker discovered a swallow hole in the forest, leading to an underground cave."
2. Advanced Example: "The swallow hole formed after years of water eroding the limestone, creating a unique environment for various species."

Word Variants

• Swallow (verb): To take in food or drink through the mouth and down the throat.
• Hole (noun): An opening or hollow space in a solid object or surface.

Different Meanings

• Swallow (verb): To make food or drink go down your throat.
• Hole (noun): A general term for any opening or void in a surface.

Synonyms

• Sinkhole
• Cave entrance
• Karst feature

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

• "Swallowed up": This phrase can mean to be absorbed or engulfed by something, often used figuratively (e.g., "The small town was swallowed up by the expanding city.")
• "Swallow one's pride": This idiom means to humble oneself or to admit that one is wrong.

Summary

A "swallow hole" is a specific geological feature, primarily found in limestone regions, where the ground has collapsed to form an opening leading to underground passages.

Academic

Noun

1. a depression in the ground communicating with a subterranean passage (especially in limestone) and formed by solution or by collapse of a cavern roof

Synonyms

• sinkhole
• sink