black hole
/'blækhoul/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A region of space with an extremely strong gravitational field: A "black hole" is a region in space where gravity is so intense that nothing, not even light, can escape from it. It is formed from the gravitational collapse of a massive star.
- (Figurative) A place or situation that consumes things without return: Informally, "black hole" can describe something that absorbs resources, energy, or information without any visible result or output.
Usage Examples
- Noun (Astronomical):
- Noun (Figurative):
Advanced Usage
- "Information black hole": A situation where information enters but is not shared or is lost.
- "To fall into a black hole": To disappear or be consumed by a system or situation.
Variants and Related Words
- Singularity (n): The central point of a black hole, where density is thought to be infinite.
- Event horizon (n): The boundary around a black hole beyond which no escape is possible.
- Black hole physics (n): The scientific study of black holes and related phenomena.
Synonyms
- Void (n): An empty space (used more generally, not specific to astronomy).
- Abyss (n): A deep or seemingly bottomless chasm (often used figuratively).
- Sink (n): A place where something is lost or disappears (e.g., ).
Related Phrases
- Black hole of Calcutta: A historical reference to a small dungeon in Calcutta, now used figuratively for any cramped, dark, or oppressive place.
Related Idioms
- Like throwing money into a black hole: Wasting resources with no hope of return.
Noun
- a region of space resulting from the collapse of a star; extremely high gravitational field