sumidero
/sumiˈdeɾo/
The Spanish word for sinkhole is sumidero.
In a geological context, sumidero refers to a hole formed in soluble rock. However, it is also the standard term used for a drain or a sinkhole in a plumbing context, such as a drain in a sink.
Meaning: geology: hole formed in soluble rock (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is composed of the verb sumir (to sink or submerge) and the suffix -dero (denoting a place or tool), literally meaning a place where things sink.
Which one should you use?
While sumidero is the specific geological term for a sinkhole, it is also used to mean a plumbing drain.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In the Dominican Republic, socavón is sometimes used for sinkhole.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form is sumideros, which is formed by changing the final vowel from -o to -os.
How do you pronounce it?
/sumiˈdeɾo/
Did you know?
- The verb sumir inside sumidero can also be used figuratively to describe someone sinking into a deep state of depression or grief.
- Because it is derived from the Latin suffix '-torium', the word sumidero belongs to a family of words that denote specific functional spaces.
- In Spanish, socavón specifically implies an underground cavity that has collapsed, often used when talking about urban road failures.
Examples in context
- La casa de Tom fue tragada por un sumidero.Tom's home was swallowed by a sinkhole.This sentence shows the use of sumidero in a sentence describing a house being swallowed.Tatoeba #8304948 by GuidoW, translation #5540472 by Hybrid
- El hundimiento fue causado por la erosiónThe sinkhole was caused by erosion.
- El sumidero se formó debido a la falta de soporte geológicoThe sinkhole was formed due to lack of geological support.
- El boquete apareció después de la fuerte lluviaThe sinkhole appeared after the heavy rain.
- El sumidero apareció en medio de la carretera.The sinkhole appeared in the middle of the road.
- Es peligroso caminar cerca de ese sumidero.It is dangerous to walk near that sinkhole.
Example conversation
Daniel and María are walking in a rural area.
- Daniel¿Viste aquel sumidero junto al bosque?Did you see that sinkhole next to the forest?
- MaríaSí, es un sumidero muy profundo.Yes, it is a very deep sinkhole.
- DanielDebemos evitar caminar por esa zona.We should avoid walking through that area.
- MaríaTienes razón, Daniel, es muy arriesgado.You are right, Daniel, it is very risky.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry sumidero, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries sumidero, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
