noun

A bottomless chasm or gulf. This refers to an extremely deep hole or opening in the earth, often one that is so deep that its bottom cannot be seen.

A place of great depth or mystery. This usage is more figurative, and it refers to something that is vast, unknown, or difficult to understand.

A state of despair or hopelessness. This usage is also figurative, and it refers to a feeling of being trapped in a situation that seems impossible to escape.

Example

1. The spelunkers carefully descended into the abyss, their flashlights cutting through the darkness.
2. The philosopher pondered the abyss of existence, contemplating the meaning of life and death.
3. After losing her job and her home, the woman felt like she was falling into an abyss of despair.