noun / verb
pit
PIT/pɪt/
A hole or hollow in the ground or another surface.
The deep pit has steep earthen walls and a recessed dirt floor.
Etymology
Latin puteus named a well, pit, or shaft—a hollow extending down into the ground. The English meaning preserves this concrete idea of a natural or dug depression.
In context
a pit latrine or pit privy they're basically exactly as advertised a hole in the ground with an ouse sitting on top of it
More examples
- Rainwater collects in the pit behind the barn.
- Tiny pits cover the surface of the old stone.
- Acid can pit the metal and leave it rough.
Forms
pit · pits · pitted · pitting
Similar words
- hole
- A broader term that also includes openings passing through something.
- hollow
- Emphasizes a sunken or empty area, not necessarily a deep hole.
- depression
- Usually suggests a shallow area lower than its surroundings.