the gate or entrance of hell; a place that may lead to hell; cf. hell gate, n.

The portal or entrance of hell, esp. regarded as an embodiment or symbol of evil or vice. Frequently without article, as a proper name. Cf. gates o…

Phrases. the gate(s of heaven, gates of hell, gates of paradise, where the word may originally have been apprehended in a material sense. Also the…

the mouth or entrance of hell (chiefly without article).

The surface opening of a pit, cave, well, ditch, etc.; (figurative) the entrance to Hell.