A deep opening or chasm, particularly as a term used in geology or astronomy to describe large linear depressions or canyon systems.
From Greek 'chasma' (χάσμα) meaning 'gaping mouth' or 'chasm,' related to the verb 'chainein' (to gape). The term appears in scientific nomenclature, particularly in lunar and planetary geology, where features are named 'chasma' (like Valles Marineris, also known as Marineris Chasma on Mars).
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