noun
- plural of cenote; natural sinkholes or underground caverns in limestone regions, especially in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, that often contain freshwater and were sacred to the ancient Maya
Usage: primarily used in geographical and archaeological contexts; from Spanish cenote, derived from Maya tsinot
Examples
- The cenotes of the Yucatan Peninsula provided fresh water to the Maya civilization.
- Tourists visit the cenotes to swim in the crystal-clear underground pools.
- Archaeological evidence suggests the ancient Maya considered cenotes to be sacred sites.
- Several cenotes are now protected as natural reserves in Mexico.
- The largest cenotes can extend hundreds of meters underground.