abysm

[ uh-biz-uhm ]

noun

1. an abyss.

abysm

/ əˈbɪzəm /

noun

1. an archaic word for abyss

Word History and Origins

Origin of abysm¹

1250–1300; Middle English abi ( s ) me < Middle French abisme < Vulgar Latin *abyssimus, a neologistic pseudo-superlative of Late Latin abyssus abyss

Word History and Origins

Origin of abysm¹

C13: via Old French from Medieval Latin abysmus abyss

Example Sentences

And then, ignoring the dizzying abysm behind us, the head told us the story of St Hugh, as depicted there in front of us in the stained glass.

From BBC

Delicate Ariel, sea nymphs ring the knell...in the dark backward and abysm of time...”

From Project Gutenberg

But it was not to be supposed that they really cared for abysms or mystical mathematics, or that they were not a great deal more zealous for suppers, and drinking bouts, and boating parties.

From Project Gutenberg

It seems the "dark backward and abysm of time" when writing the name of William Hurrell Mallock, yet not forty years ago he was the most discussed author of his day.

From Project Gutenberg

"Besides, there's no sense in it," and he jerked his head backwards to signify the abysm.

From Project Gutenberg