Cave

Definition

Cave refers to a natural underground space, typically a large hollow formed in the earth or in rock, often extending deep into the ground. Caves can be formed by geological processes such as erosion, volcanic activity, or the dissolution of limestone.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /keɪv/
• Respelling: kave

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /keɪv/
• Respelling: kave

Etymology

The word "cave" originates from the Latin word "cavus," meaning "hollow." It passed into Old French as "cave," and then into Middle English in the 13th century. Initially referring to any hollow or cavity, it has come to describe large, natural underground spaces.

Derivatives

• Cavern (noun)
• Caving (noun)
• Cavernous (adjective)
• Excavate (verb)
• Incave (verb)

Synonyms

• Grotto
• Hollow
• Cavern

Antonyms

• Peak
• Mountain
• Cliff

Usage

The noun "cave" is often used in the context of natural geography, such as "The explorers ventured deep into the cave to discover new formations." As a verb, it means to give in to pressure or collapse, as in "He finally caved under the pressure of the negotiations." Caving, or spelunking, is the recreational exploration of caves.

Related Terms

• Spelunking: The hobby or practice of exploring caves.
• Karst: A type of landscape characterized by caves, sinkholes, and underground rivers, formed primarily by the dissolution of soluble rocks such as limestone.
• Erosion: The process of weathering or the gradual destruction of rock, which can contribute to cave formation.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A natural underground chamber or series of chambers: Refers to a large, naturally occurring underground hollow, typically formed through geological processes.
  • Example: "The cave was home to rare species of bats."

Verb

• To give in to pressure or collapse: Used to describe situations where someone yields or when something physically collapses.
  • Example: "She finally caved under the constant requests from her friends."