1. having a conical recess cut around a hole so that the head of a screw or bolt sits flush with or below the surface
Usage: technical

1. past tense and past participle of countersink

Examples

• The screws were countersunk so they wouldn’t catch on clothing.
• He countersunk all the bolt heads to create a smooth surface.
• The countersunk holes allowed the cabinet doors to close properly.
• She carefully countersunk each screw in the wooden deck.
• The countersunk rivets gave the aircraft a sleek appearance.
• They countersunk the hinges so the door would sit flush against the frame.