Potholes Meaning and Definition
Potholes
Pronunciation
/ˈpoʊθoʊlz/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A hole or depression in a road, path, or other surface, typically caused by wear and tear or natural erosion.
Etymology
The word “Potholes” originates from the Old English phrase “poth al”, meaning “hollow place” or “depression in the ground”. Over time, the term evolved to describe depressions in surfaces, specifically roads and paths.
Usage Notes
Potholes can be used in various contexts, such as describing road conditions, discussing infrastructure maintenance, or commenting on weathering and erosion.
Cultural References
Potholes have appeared in popular culture, often symbolizing the wear and tear of time and usage. Examples include the song “Potholes” by American rapper Daveed Diggs and the TV show “Parks and Recreation” featuring a memorable pothole-filled road.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Hit a pothole” – to experience a sudden and unexpected problem or setback
Related Words or Phrases
- Dirt road
- Ruts
- Erosion
Collocations
- Potholes and rust
- Potholes on the highway
Frequency of Use
Potholes are a common phenomenon, and the term is frequently used in everyday language to describe road conditions. According to linguistic databases, the word “Potholes” appears in approximately 1 in 10,000 phrases.
Common Misspellings
- Pothole
- Pothloes
- Pot hole