crater
KRAY-tuh
Crater (noun) means a bowl-shaped hollow in the ground, caused by an explosion, impact, or volcanic activity. Example: “The meteorite left a crater several miles wide.”
noun
1
A bowl-shaped hollow in the ground, caused by an explosion, impact, or volcanic activity.
"The meteorite left a crater several miles wide."
"Scientists study the craters on the Moon to learn about its history."
verb
1
To collapse or fail suddenly and completely.
"The company's stock price cratered after the scandal broke."
How to use crater
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA bowl-like dent in the ground, or (as a verb) to collapse dramatically.
Common pairings
impact crater
volcanic crater
prices cratered
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- craters
- Past tense
- cratered
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The meteorite left a _____ several miles wide.
Etymology
From Latin crater, "mixing bowl," borrowed from Greek — the shape of an impact hollow reminded early scientists of a large bowl.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for crater
See all rhymes for 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.
