crater
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for crater, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A bowl-shaped hollow in the ground, caused by an explosion, impact, or volcanic activity.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use crater
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin crater, "mixing bowl," borrowed from Greek — the shape of an impact hollow reminded early scientists of a large bowl.
Full origin of crater →Frequently asked questions
What does “crater” mean?
The word “crater” means a bowl-shaped hollow in the ground, caused by an explosion, impact, or volcanic activity. In plain terms, a bowl-like dent in the ground, or (as a verb) to collapse dramatically.
How do you pronounce “crater”?
“Crater” is pronounced KRAY-tuh (/ˈkɹeɪ.tɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “crater” in a sentence?
Here is “crater” used in a sentence: “The meteorite left a crater several miles wide.”
What part of speech is “crater”?
Depending on how it is used, “crater” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “crater” come from?
The word “crater” comes from Latin. From Latin crater, "mixing bowl," borrowed from Greek — the shape of an impact hollow reminded early scientists of a large bowl.
Is “crater” a common word?
“Crater” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “crater” have?
“Crater” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a bowl-shaped hollow in the ground, caused by an explosion, impact, or volcanic activity.
What is the difference between a crater and a hole?
A hole is any general opening or gap, while a crater is specifically a bowl-shaped hollow caused by an explosion, impact, or volcanic activity. Craters are typically large, rounded depressions with raised rims, distinguishing them from ordinary holes or pits.
What does it mean when something craters, such as a stock or a project?
When used as a verb, crater means to collapse or fail suddenly and completely, as in a stock price cratering after bad news. This figurative use draws on the image of a sudden, dramatic collapse leaving a deep hollow behind.
Can crater be used for non-physical failures?
Yes, crater is commonly applied figuratively to plans, businesses, relationships, or performances that suddenly and completely fall apart. In this sense it emphasizes both the suddenness and the totality of the failure.