pothole

noun pot·hole \ˈpät-ˌhōl\

: a deep, round hole in a road or some other surface (such as the bottom of a river)

Full Definition of POTHOLE

a : a circular hole formed in the rocky bed of a river by the grinding action of stones or gravel whirled round by the water

b : a sizable rounded often water-filled depression in land

: a pot-shaped hole in a road surface

: a usually minor difficulty or setback <hit a pothole in her comeback attempt>

— pot·holed \-ˌhōld\ adjective

See pothole defined for English-language learners

See pothole defined for kids

1826

POTHOLE Defined for Kids

noun pot·hole \ˈpät-ˌhōl\

: a deep round hole (as in a road)

Next Word in the Dictionary: potholerPrevious Word in the Dictionary: pot holderAll Words Near: pothole

What made you want to look up pothole? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears