spelunk

Definition

To explore caves, especially as a recreational activity; the present form of the verb related to spelunking (cave exploration). Spelunkers investigate underground caverns for scientific research, adventure, or documentation.

Example Usage

Every summer, they spelunk through the limestone caves near their cabin, mapping new passages.

Origin

From 'spelunking', which derives from Latin 'spelunca' meaning cave, popularized in the 1940s by American cave explorers.

Fun Fact

The earliest known cave exploration for sport dates back to the 1890s in France, but the term 'spelunk' didn't become common until mid-20th century.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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