A cenote is a natural pit, or sinkhole, resulting from the collapse of limestone bedrock that exposes groundwater. The regional term is specifically associated with the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico, where cenotes were commonly used for water supplies by the ancient Maya, and occasionally for sacrificial offerings.

What does cenote mean in Mayan?

The word cenote comes from the Mayan word dzonot, which means "well." Some cenotes are vertical, water-filled shafts, while others are caves that contain pools and underwater passageways in their interior.

What does cenotes mean in English?

: a deep sinkhole in limestone with a pool at the bottom that is found especially in Yucatán.