Caves

cave  (kv)

n.

1. A hollow or natural passage under or into the earth, especially one with an opening to the surface.

2. A storage cellar, especially for wine.

v. caved, cav·ing, caves

v.tr.

1. To dig or hollow out.

2. To cause to collapse or fall in. Often used with in: The impact caved in the roof of the car.

v.intr.

1. To fall in; collapse. Often used with in: The walls caved in during the earthquake.

2. To give up all opposition; yield. Often used with in: The school committee caved in to the demands of parents.

3. To explore caves.

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[Middle English, from Old French, from Latin cava, from neuter pl. of cavus, hollow; see keu- in Indo-European roots.]

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Caves

caving

the term for speleology used by professionals.

speleology, spelaeology

the branch of geology that explores, studies, and describes caves. — speleologist, spelaeologist, n. — speleological, spelaeological, adj.

spelunker

a person who explores caves as a hobby. — spelunk, v.