chasm

views updated May 14 2018

chasm / ˈkazəm/ • n. a deep fissure in the earth, rock, or another surface. ∎ fig. a profound difference between people, viewpoints, feelings, etc.: the chasm between rich and poor.DERIVATIVES: chas·mic / ˈkazmik/ adj. ( rare ).

chasm

views updated May 17 2018

chasm XVII. — L. chasma — Gr. khásma yawning hollow, rel. to khaínein gape.

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