manhole

noun

man·​hole ˈman-ˌhōl How to pronounce manhole (audio)
: a hole through which one may go especially to gain access to an underground or enclosed structure

Examples of manhole in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In aerial footage broadcast by Fox News, law enforcement was seen using a pole while searching a manhole reportedly located behind the home. Brendan Morrow, USA Today, 8 Feb. 2026 The Boston Fire Department says the manhole covers were recently replaced, designed to catch themselves after releasing pressure instead of flying into the air. Brandon Truitt, CBS News, 4 Feb. 2026 Officials do not know what caused the damage to the manhole, but the situation does not appear to be serious, MSD spokesperson Sheryl Lauder said. Leo Bertucci, Louisville Courier Journal, 3 Feb. 2026 Equipped with a hammer and a bucket to remove water from the manholes, Arredondo checks the water meters to determine each home’s consumption and always treads carefully to avoid slipping on the ice. Imelda García, Dallas Morning News, 30 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for manhole

Word History

First Known Use

1769, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of manhole was in 1769

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Manhole.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/manhole. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

manhole

noun
man·​hole ˈman-ˌhōl How to pronounce manhole (audio)
: a covered hole (as in a pavement, tank, or boiler) through which a worker may go

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